Hospital bed computer system

ABSTRACT

A point-of-care computer system is provided, including a display positioned in a point-of-care location. The point-of-care computer includes hardware coupled to a frame of a hospital bed.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.11/611,955, filed Dec. 18, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,679,520, which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/211,451, filed Aug. 2,2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,154,397, which claimed the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/310,092, filed Aug. 3, 2001,which is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/849,580, filedMay 4, 2001 (hereinafter, “the '580 Application”), the disclosures ofwhich are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a computer system configured for use at thepoint of care by a patient and by a caregiver in a hospital or otherhealth care facility in order to care for patients. The presentinvention facilitates caregiver and patient access to the computer foraccess to and entry of information at the point of care, providesautomatic data capture, provides a computer screen with a flow sheetsized proportion, and provides an interface for other equipment.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Providing a computer system at the point of care enables access toinformation from a laboratory, pharmacy, radiology, or other locationsaway from the point of care where it is needed, at the point of care.The system of the present invention includes both manual and automaticpatient data entry at the point of care to create an electronic record.The system permits caregivers to easily input chart data directly intothe computer. In addition, the computer receives informationautomatically from various monitors and medical devices such as vitalsigns monitors, bed therapy systems, IV pumps, and the like. Therefore,all data related to the patient is captured at a single location (i.e.,the point of care). The computer of the present system is designed toremain with the patient in the hospital room and during ambulation ortransportation within the hospital. In other words, the computer mayfollow the patient wherever the patient goes from admit to discharge.

Providing a computer system at the point of care improves communication.Lab and radiology results are presented electronically to the orderingand consulting physicians at the point of care. The system of thepresent invention facilitates patient care by enabling the creation ofvirtual teams of caregivers who may never actually meet when caring forthe patient. The system instantaneously captures information related tothe patient as well as to laboratory and diagnostic procedures orderedfor the patient.

In one embodiment, the system provides updated access to information andcommunication at the point of care. Patient data is stored in a memoryof the point-of-care computer or in a main server coupled to thecomputer by a communication network. Access to all patient informationis available to physicians, pharmacy, radiology, lab, cath lab, or anycomputer connected to the point-of-care computer through a communicationnetwork. Doctors or other caregivers at remote locations can viewinformation related to the patient by accessing the computer associatedwith the patient or the main server through the communication network.In other words, each computer functions as a node on the network, andcan access information from other nodes. The present computer systemalso functions to capture costs of services and supplies, and totransmit the cost information to, for example, a hospital accountingdepartment for billing purposes. Therefore, the system can determine theactual cost of providing services and treatments to the patient, as wellas the costs of medication and other supplies used by the patient.

In one embodiment, the computer system of the present invention uses awireless data receiver to receive signals from badges on the caregiverand the patient and from tags on equipment, medication, a medicationlock box located within the hospital room, or other supplies. Thesesignals identify the people or things with which they are associated.The system may also include an input device such as touch sensitivedisplay, a hand pad, a keyboard or a bar code reader to receive theseidentification signals.

The system of the present invention may be used with the COMposer®communication system available from Hill-Rom Company of Batesville, Ind.Some details of the COMposer® system are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,561,412, 5,699,038, and 5,838,223, all of which are hereby expresslyincorporated herein by reference.

In one embodiment of the invention, the computer system is used formonitoring the administration of medication to a patient. The patientprescription information is entered into the hospital communicationnetwork. Therefore, the patient's name and associated medication dosageschedule are accessible by the computer in the patient's room. When thepharmacy fills a prescription, the medication is placed in a lockedmedical box and transported to the patient's room. When the nurse bringsthe locked medical box to the patient's room, the computer system firstidentifies the patient by receiving an identification signal from thepatient via an RFID tag, a bar code, a transmitter badge, or some otherdevice for providing a unique identification signal associated with thepatient. The system then determines whether the patient is due formedication. If so, the system receives identification information fromthe nurse in a similar manner. If the nurse is not authorized toadminister the medication, access to the locked medical box is denied.If the nurse is authorized, then the locked medical box is scanned orotherwise sensed by the computer to determine whether the medicationcontained therein matches the scheduled medication for the patient. Ifso, the locked medical box is opened. The medication in the box is thenscanned or otherwise sensed by the computer to confirm that themedication is correct. A visual image of the medication is displayed ona display of the point-of-care computer so that the nurse can confirmthat the medication is correct. If the medication is correct, then thenurse provides an input to the computer and the computer scans orotherwise senses the medication. The patient is billed for themedication at that time by the computer system. The computer may thenprompt the nurse to indicate whether the patient held down themedication. If the patient did not hold down the medication, then themedication is not added to the patient's chart. If the patient held downthe medication, then the system automatically adds the medication dosageand time of administration to the patient's chart.

Additional features of the invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon consideration of the following drawings inconjunction with the detailed description of the illustrated embodimentsexemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presentlyperceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figuresin which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating components of a wired computersystem and medication dispenser of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating components of a wireless computersystem and medication dispenser of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are flow charts illustrating the steps performed by thesystem to monitor administration of medication to a patient;

FIGS. 4-7 are perspective views of another embodiment of the presentinvention including a patient assist cart having a computer and displaymounted thereon and a locked medication box in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 8-12 are perspective views of another embodiment of a patientassist cart and locked medication box of the present invention;

FIGS. 13 and 14 are side elevational views, partly in section, ofcomponents of the locked medication box depicted in FIGS. 8-12;

FIGS. 15-18 are perspective views of yet another embodiment of a patientassist cart and locked medication box of the present invention;

FIGS. 19 and 20 are perspective views of a transport cart fortransporting medication boxes;

FIGS. 21-24 are perspective views of one mounting configuration of apoint-of-care computer display of the present invention;

FIGS. 25-27 are perspective views of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration;

FIGS. 28 and 29 are perspective views of a detent coupling mechanism foruse in the various disclosed mounting configurations;

FIGS. 30-34 are perspective views of a display carrier mountingconfiguration;

FIGS. 35 and 36 are perspective views of another mounting configurationof the present invention;

FIGS. 37-39 are perspective views of components of the mountingconfiguration of FIGS. 35 and 36;

FIGS. 40 and 41 are perspective views of another embodiment of amounting configuration supporting a dual screen display;

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a display according to the presentinvention;

FIGS. 43-63 depict various screens generated on a touch screen displayof the present invention;

FIGS. 64 and 65 are perspective views of another embodiment of apoint-of-care computer display mounting configuration of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 66-68 are perspective views of yet another embodiment of amounting configuration;

FIGS. 69 and 70 are perspective views of another embodiment of amounting configuration;

FIGS. 71-73 are perspective views of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration;

FIG. 74 is a perspective view of a display support according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 75 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration;

FIG. 76 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration of the present invention;

FIG. 77 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration of the present invention;

FIGS. 78 and 79 are perspective views of components of the mountingconfiguration depicted in FIG. 77;

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration of the present invention;

FIGS. 81-83 are top plan views of variations of the track shape of themounting configuration of FIG. 80;

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration of a point-of-care computer system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 85 is a side elevational view, partly in section, of the mountingconfiguration of FIG. 84;

FIG. 86 is a top plan view of a portion of a hospital including themounting configuration of FIG. 84;

FIG. 87 is a top plan view of a portion of a hospital including anotherembodiment of a mounting configuration of the present invention;

FIGS. 88 and 89 are perspective views of the mounting configuration ofFIG. 87;

FIG. 90 is a top plan view of a portion of a hospital including anotherembodiment of a mounting configuration of the present invention;

FIG. 91 is a perspective view of the mounting configuration of FIG. 90;

FIGS. 92-94 are perspective views of another mounting configuration fora display of the present invention;

FIG. 95 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration;

FIG. 96 is a side elevation view, partly in section, of the mountingconfiguration of FIG. 95;

FIG. 97 is a top plan view of the mounting configuration of FIG. 95;

FIGS. 98 and 99 are side elevational views of the mounting configurationof FIG. 95;

FIGS. 100-102 are perspective views of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration of the present invention;

FIGS. 103-108 are perspective views of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration of the present invention;

FIGS. 109-111 are perspective views of yet another embodiment of amounting configuration similar to that of FIGS. 103-108;

FIG. 112 is a perspective view of an overbed table including apoint-of-care computer display according to the present invention;

FIG. 113 is a side elevational view of the overbed table of FIG. 112;

FIG. 114 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an overbed tableof the present invention;

FIG. 115 is a side elevational view of the overbed table of FIG. 114;

FIG. 116A is an exploded, perspective view of another overbed tableincluding a point-of-care computer display of the present invention;

FIG. 116B is a perspective view of the overbed table of FIG. 116A;

FIG. 117 is a perspective view of yet another overbed table including apoint-of-care computer display of the present invention;

FIG. 118 is a perspective view of a projection system for use in apoint-of-care computer system of the present invention;

FIG. 119 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of an overbedtable including a point-of-care computer display of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 120-122 are top plan views of the overbed table of FIG. 119;

FIG. 123 is a perspective view, partly in section, of components of theoverbed table of FIG. 119;

FIG. 124 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of an overbedtable including a point-of-care computer display of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 125-128 are block diagrams of processes facilitated by thepoint-of-care computer system of the present invention;

FIG. 129 is a conceptual view of another embodiment of a point-of-carecomputer system of the present invention;

FIGS. 130 and 131 are perspective views, partly in section, of a clientdevice of the system of FIG. 129;

FIGS. 132-143 depict various screens generated on a client devicedisplay of the present invention;

FIGS. 144-147 are perspective views of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration for a point-of-care computer display; and

FIGS. 148-150 are perspective views of another embodiment of a mountingconfiguration according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments described below are merely exemplary and are notintended to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Instead,the embodiments were selected for description to enable one of ordinaryskill in the art to practice the invention.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustratingcomponents of a patient and nurse point-of-care computer system 10according to the present invention. System 10 generally includes acomputer 12 that is electrically coupled to a display 24, a bed 14, anurse call system 36, and an input device 38. Computer 12 illustrativelyhas a processor, a memory, and a plurality of input and output ports.Computer 12 is coupled to bed 14 either by a wired connection shown inFIG. 1, or by a wireless connection discussed below in connection withFIG. 2.

Bed 14 illustratively includes a plurality of patient controls 16 tocontrol various bed functions such as movement of bed deck sections,mattress controls, entertainment controls, or other controls. A powersupply 18 is configured to supply power to bed 14. Bed 14 illustrativelyincludes a 37 pin J-Box connector 20. Connector 20 includes a pluralityof lines which indicate various conditions of bed 14, such as thelocation of deck sections, the status of bed functions, the status ofcaster locks, and the like. Connector 20 is coupled to computer 12 by adata link 22 which illustratively includes four lines that areopto-coupled to computer 12 using, for example, a Serial PeripheralInterface (SPI) Motorola® data standard. Data link 22 permits two-waycommunication between computer 12 and bed 14. In other words, bed statusconditions and patient data can be transmitted from bed 14 through datalink 22 to computer 12. In addition, control signals for bed 14 can betransmitted from computer 12 through data link 22 to bed 14.

In one embodiment, computer 12 is used to provide controlled medicationadministration, television, radio/audio, telephone, and bed controls,internet access, e-mail functions, and nurse call functions.Illustratively, display 24 is a touch screen display that can be used asboth a television terminal and a computer display. Software operated bycomputer 12 may provide a keyboard emulation 26 on display 24 to permita user to enter information into computer 12 using touch screen display24. It is understood that any suitable input device such as a hand pad(described below), a pen or stylus based input device, a keyboard, amouse, a joy stick, a voice recognition interface, or other such devicemay be used to enter information into computer 12.

Patient monitors 28, treatment devices 30, and therapy devices 32 arealso coupled to computer 12 as discussed in detail in the '580Application. Computer 12 is also coupled to a hospital communicationnetwork 34 which is coupled to nurse call communication system 36 suchas, for example, the COMposer® or COMLinx communication systemsmentioned above.

Input device 38 may include an IR or RF receiver, a bar code reader, asmart card reader, a magnetic stripe reader or other suitable inputdevice. Input device 38 is configured to receive information from abar-coded tag, RFID tag, or other transmitter on a wristband or badge 40located on a patient, on medication 42 to be given to the patient, on anurse badge 44, on a locked medication box 46, or on other objects. Inone embodiment, device 38 is an RFID sensor for receiving identificationinformation from RFID tags associated with a caregiver, a patient,medication 42, locked medication box 46, or other equipment or supplies.

Hospital network 34 provides a television input signal on line 35 tocomputer 12. Therefore, computer 12 is used to provide televisionsignals to display 24. Computer 12 is illustratively coupled to display24 using a low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) interface 25.

A wireless computer system 10′ of the present invention is illustratedin FIG. 2. Those elements referenced by numbers the same as those usedin FIG. 1 perform the same or similar function. In FIG. 2, J-Boxconnector 20 is illustratively coupled to a SPI-to-Bluetooth converter50. It should be understood that any type of suitable wireless datatransmitter/receiver and converter can be used. Converter 50 is coupledto a DC power supply 52 connected to bed 14. Converter 50 illustrativelytransmits an RF signal to a transceiver 54 coupled to computer 12.Converter 50 and transceiver 54 may employ RF, IR, or other suitablecommunication technique. Illustratively, the Bluetooth protocol is usedfor RF transmissions. Also illustratively, computer 12 is coupled tohospital communication network 34 by a wireless RF LAN Ethernetconnection 56 that illustratively provides a 1-10 GHz data transmissionrate. Therefore, television or voice IP signals can be transmittedbetween network 34 and computer 12.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate steps performed by system 10 (or system 10′)to monitor administration of patient medication and to unlock lockedmedication box 46 to provide access to medication 42 for a patient. Asillustrated in FIG. 3A, a patient is assigned a unique bar codeidentification or a transmitter badge (for example, having an RFID tag)which transmits a unique identification signal corresponding to thepatient as indicated at block 60. When a doctor prescribes a certainmedication for the patient, the prescription is entered into hospitalnetwork 34 as indicated at block 62. Network 34 then provides a dosageschedule and medication type corresponding to the patient.

When a prescription is filled by the pharmacy, medication 42 or a lockedmedication box 46 containing medication 42 is assigned a bar code, atransmitter badge, or other device that transmits a uniqueidentification signal. The signal may either correspond to theparticular patient for which medication 42 was prescribed, or to theparticular type of medication 42 in locked medication box 46. This stepis illustrated in block 64. Details of an embodiment providingmedication containers with unique transmitters are illustrated inco-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/309,963,filed Aug. 3, 2001, entitled “MEDICATION TRACKING SYSTEM,” and owned bythe assignee of the present application, the disclosure of which ishereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Next, a caregiver delivers medication 42 located in locked medicationbox 46 or other medication container to the patient's room. Computer 12first receives patient identification information as illustrated atblock 66. Patient identification information is entered into computer 12through input device 38 using, for example, a bar code reader whichreads a bar code on a patient wristband or other location, or an RFIDreceiver which receives a signal from a badge or tag on the patient asillustrated at block 66. Computer 12 then determines whether the correctpatient has been located for receipt of medication 42 by accessing thehospital records via network 34 as illustrated at block 68. Computer 12receives the prescription schedule via network 34 to determine whetherthe patient is due for medication 42. An image of the patient may bedisplayed on display 24 to permit the nurse to verify the patient'sidentity. If an incorrect patient is identified, or the patient is notdue for medication 42, then access to medication 42 in locked medicationbox 46 is denied as illustrated at block 70.

If, at block 68, the correct patient is identified and is due formedication 42, computer 12 receives nurse identification information asillustrated at block 72. Input device 38 scans a bar code tag associatedwith the nurse or automatically detects a unique identification signalfrom a badge or RFID tag assigned to the nurse. Computer 12 thendetermines whether the nurse is an authorized caregiver foradministering medication 42 by comparing the signal received at block 72to a database of authorized caregivers available from hospital network34 as illustrated at block 74. If the nurse is not authorized toadminister medication 42, then access to medication 42 in lockedmedication box 46 is denied at block 70. If the nurse is authorized,then computer 12 opens locked medication box 46 and receivesidentification information from medication 42 as illustrated at block76. Medication 42 is illustratively scanned using a bar code reader. Inaddition, computer 12 may identify medication 42 or locked medicationbox 46 by detecting a unique identification signal transmitted by abadge or RFID tag associated with medication 42, locked medication box46, or other medication container.

Referring now to FIG. 3B, computer 12 determines whether medication 42detected at block 76 is correct by comparing the received identificationsignal to information received from hospital network 34. If medication42 is not correct, access to medication 42 is denied at block 70. Ifmedication 42 is correct, computer 12 displays information related tomedication 42 on display 24. In an illustrated embodiment, computer 12displays an image of the particular pill or other type of medication ondisplay 24 for visual confirmation of medication 42 by the nurse asillustrated by block 80. Upon reviewing the displayed image, the nurseconfirms that medication 42 is correct as illustrated at block 82. Ifmedication 42 is not correct, then the nurse stops the administration ofmedication 42 as illustrated at block 84. If the nurse confirms thatmedication 42 is correct at block 82, then computer 12 scans orotherwise receives identification information from medication 42 againat block 86. Computer 12 then automatically bills the patient formedication 42 as illustrated at block 88. Computer 12 then prompts thenurse at block 90 to indicate whether or not the patient held downmedication 42. If medication 42 was not held down, computer 12 does notadd medication 42 to the patient's medical chart as illustrated at block92. If medication 42 was held down, computer 12 adds medication 42 tothe patient's chart including dosage amount and time of administrationas illustrated at block 94.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 4-7.A patient assist cart 100 includes a base 102 having opposite sidesupports 104, 106. Side supports 104, 106 include elongated supportplates 108, 110, respectively. Casters 112 (one shown) are coupled toone end of plates 108, 110. Casters 112 illustratively includeself-contained actuatable locks. Locking casters 114 are coupled toopposite ends of plates 108, 110. Brake mechanisms 116 are coupled tocasters 114. Break mechanisms 116 are actuated by weight applied to cart100. Cart 100 further includes upwardly extending support tubes 118, 120coupled to a central portion 122 of base 102, a foldable seat 124,moveable patient and caregiver handles 126, a computer 12 mountedbetween support tubes 118 and 120, a display 24 coupled to cart 100 byan arm assembly, moveable support arms 132 that support IV poles 134,and an oxygen or air tank 136 coupled to cart 100 by a support bracket138, all of which are described in further detail in the '580Application. Finally, cart 100 further includes a med bank or lockedmedication box 140 that is removably coupled to a coupler 142 on patientassist cart 100. Medication box 140 may function as medication box 46 ofFIGS. 1-3B.

FIG. 5A illustrates medication box 140 removed from coupler 142.Medication box 140 can then be transported to a pharmacy for refillingor loaded into a receptacle in a patient's room or other location. FIGS.6 and 7 illustrate details of medication box 140 and coupler 142.Coupler 142 illustratively includes a pair of tracks 144 configured toreceive first and second flanges 146 coupled to medication box 140.Medication box 140 includes an outer housing 148 and an internalcompartment 150 which is coupled to housing 148 by pivot connector 152for pivotal movement about pivot axis 154. A locking plunger 156 isconfigured to lock compartment 150 in a closed position as shown in FIG.6 and to lock medication box 140 to coupler 142 as described below.

As best shown in FIG. 7, plunger 156 is located in a housing 158 ofcompartment 150. Plunger 156 normally moves due to gravity to thelowered position shown in FIG. 7. A support plate 160 is coupled to arear wall 162 of housing 148. An L-shaped lock arm 164 is pivotablycoupled to plate 160 by pivot connection 166. A spring 168 is coupledbetween a post 171 on lock arm 164 and an aperture 173 formed in aflange 172 of plate 160 to bias lock arm 164 to the position shown inFIG. 6. Arm 174 of lock arm 164 includes a head 176 having a rampsurface 178 configured to engage a bottom surface 180 of plunger 156 ascompartment 150 is closed. When ramp surface 178 engages bottom surface180 of plunger 156, the biasing force of spring 168 on lock arm 164causes ramp surface 178 to lift plunger 156 upwardly in the direction ofarrow 182 in FIG. 6 to lock compartment 150 to housing 148. A topsurface 184 of plunger 156 moves through an aperture 185 of housing 148.In addition, top surface 184 of plunger 156 moves into a notch oraperture 186 formed in track 144 to lock housing 148 to coupler 142which is secured to cart 100.

When it is desired to open compartment 150, a magnetic actuator 190(FIG. 6) on cart 100 is actuated by computer 12 to rotate lock arm 164clockwise about pivot connection 166 as indicated by arrow 192 in FIG.7. This causes lock arm 164 to move to the position shown in FIG. 7which, in turn, permits plunger 156 to drop into housing 158 ofcompartment 150. Therefore, compartment 150 can be pivoted to an openedposition as shown in FIGS. 5B and 7, or medication box 140 can beremoved from tracks 144 as shown in FIG. SA. Once medication box 140 isremoved from cart 100, spring 168 biases lock arm 164 (no longerinfluenced by magnetic actuator 190) to the position of FIG. 7.Therefore, if medication box 140 is removed from cart 100 whilecompartment 150 is in a closed position within housing 148, plunger 156is pushed upwardly into aperture 185 of housing 148 by head 176 of lockarm 164 to lock compartment 150 in the closed position.

Another embodiment of a locked medication box 200 according to thepresent invention is illustrated in FIGS. 8-11. Those elementsreferenced by numbers from previous figures perform the same or similarfunction. Medication box 200 is coupled to patient assist cart 100,which includes a display 24 shown oriented for use by a caregiver inFIG. 8. It should be understood that arms 206 (not shown), 208 and 210that support display 24 may be pivoted so that a patient has access todisplay 24. Arm 206 (not shown) is coupled to cart 100 by pivotconnection 214. Details of components of the display support arms areincluded in the '580 Application.

As shown in the figures, medication box 200 is coupled to cart 100 andincludes an outer housing 216 and an internal pivotable compartment 218.FIG. 9 shows medication box 200 removed from cart 100. Illustratively,medication box 200 includes tracks 220 formed on outer housing 216configured to slide into mating tracks 222 formed on cart 100. FIG. 10shows internal compartment 218 (in dashed lines) in a fully openposition.

Referring now to FIG. 11, compartment 218 of medication box 200 includesa front panel 230, a curved side wall 232 and an interior region 234 forholding medication 42. Compartment 218 includes a locking portion 236which holds locking components as described below. Housing 216 includesopposite sidewalls 238, 240, a bottom surface 242, and a top surface244. Tracks 220 extend above top surface 244. Lock pins 246 extend intoapertures 248 formed in sidewall 232 of locking portion 236. Pins 246are biased by springs (not shown) to extend outwardly from apertures248.

Housing 216 is formed to include a locking portion 250 that alsoincludes a plurality of pins 252 spaced to align with lock pins 246 whencompartment 218 is in a closed position. A key 254 configured forinsertion into an aperture (not shown) of track 220, top surface 244,and locking portion 250 in the direction of arrow 256 moves pins 252from locking portion 250 so that pins 252 move pins 246 into apertures248, thereby releasing compartment 218. Thus, the normally lockedmedication box 200 may be unlocked by key 254 when sent to a pharmacyfor filling. The nurse may also have a key 254 to unlock compartment218.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, in an alternate embodiment similar to thatof FIGS. 8-11, a linear actuator 258 is coupled to a support 260 on cart100. Actuator 258 is coupled to a stem 262 and key 264 that moves pins252 in a manner similar to key 254. Illustratively, actuator 258 is astepper motor that moves key 264 up and down in the direction of doubleheaded arrow 266. Key 264 extends through an aperture 253 (FIGS. 13, 14)of housing 216 to secure housing 216 of medication box 200 to support260 of cart 100. Key 264 is designed to move pins 252 against thebiasing force of springs 251 in apertures 248 of locking portion 236 toa proper location so that pins 246 are retracted from apertures 247 torelease compartment 218 for pivotable movement. FIG. 13 shows pins 246in unlocked positions in which pins 246 are located within apertures 248of locking portion 236 (flush with the interface between locking portion250 and locking portion 236) and pins 252 are within locking portion250. Therefore, compartment 218 can be pivoted to an open position. FIG.14 shows compartment 218 in a locked position. As shown, key 264 ispartially retracted from aperture 253 and two of pins 246 extend intoapertures 247 of locking portion 250 on housing 216, thereby preventingcompartment 218 from being pivoted to an open position.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.15-18. In this embodiment, a sliding medical box 300 is coupled topatient assist cart 100. FIG. 15 illustrates cart 100 with display 24positioned for viewing by, for example, a patient. A work surface 302 isrigidly coupled to patient assist cart 100. Surface 302 provides an areaon which a caregiver can work when dispensing medication from medicationbox 300. Medication box 300 also includes sidewalls 304, 306 which arerigidly coupled to patient assist cart 100.

A sliding compartment 307 is removable from a housing 308 defined bywork surface 302 and sidewalls 304, 306. As shown in FIG. 16,compartment 307 includes an outer lid or cover 310 having a top wall312, a bottom wall 311, a rear wall 313, and sidewalls 314, 316. As bestshown in FIG. 17, compartment 307 also includes a drawer or tray 318(shown in dashed lines) that is moveable into and out of cover 310 inthe direction of double headed arrow 320. Tray 318 includes a front wall322, sidewalls 324, 326, a bottom wall 315, and a rear wall 328. Tray318 also includes a recessed portion 330. Locking pins 332 are locatedin a locking portion 334 of tray 318 located adjacent recessed portion330. Cover 310 includes a corresponding notched portion 336 that permitsaccess to recessed portion 330 of tray 318 through cover 310.

As shown in FIG. 18, a linear motor lock mechanism 338 is coupled tocart 100. Mechanism 338 includes a linear motor 340 coupled to a stem342. Stem 342 is coupled to a key 344 configured to move pins 346 asmotor 340 moves stem 342 and key 344 in the direction of arrow 348 inFIG. 18. Key 344 and pins 346 remain with cart 100. Pins 332 of tray 318are spring biased in the direction of arrow 350 by springs 352. Whentray 318 is fully inserted into cover 310 and housing 308 on cart 100,pins 332 enter locking apertures that also contain pins 346. Pins 332also pass through apertures 317 formed through a portion 333 (FIG. 17)of rear wall 313 of cover 310 to secure tray 318 to cover 310. Whenlinear motor lock mechanism 338 is operated to move key 344 to a firstposition, pins 346 urge pins 332 to the right as viewed in FIG. 18against the biasing force of springs 352 to unlock tray 318 from cover310 to permit sliding movement of tray 318 relative to cover 310 in thedirection of arrow 320 (FIG. 17). Pins 346 retain cover 310 in positionrelative to housing 308 of cart 100. When linear actuator 340 isactuated to retract key 344, cover 310 and tray 318 are removable as aunit from cart 100. Pins 332 still engage cover 310 so that tray 318 islocked inside cover 310 even when cover 310 is removed from cart 100.

Locked compartments 307 can be loaded into a transport cart 370 as shownin FIGS. 19 and 20. Cart 370 includes a housing 372 having a pluralityof receptacles 374 configured to receive compartments 307. Cart 370 mayfurther include wheels or casters 371 so that cart 370 can betransported to and from a pharmacy for loading trays 318 withappropriate medication for each patient. Cart 100 may also include lockssuch as the locking mechanisms discussed above with reference to cart100. FIG. 20 shows the entire cover 310 and tray 318 removed from areceptacle 374.

In another embodiment of the present invention, tray 318 does notinclude pins 332. Instead, key 344 or another latch mechanism enters anaperture or receptacle formed in tray 318 to lock tray 318 in a closedposition on cart 100 when desired. When the actuator removes key 344 orlatch from the receptacle in tray 318, cover 310 and tray 318 areremovable from cart 100. In this embodiment, tray 318 is not locked tocover 310 when medication box 300 is removed.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.21-24. Display 24 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5Bis coupled to an arm assembly 400 secured to a bed 402. Arm assembly 400includes a first arm 404, a second arm 412, a third arm 416, and acoupler 417 connected to display 24. Arm 404 is pivotally coupled to aframe 406 of bed 402 adjacent a head end 408 of bed 402. Arm 404 ispivotable about a transverse axis 410 from a storage positionillustrated in FIG. 21 to an elevated position illustrated in FIG. 22.Arm 412 is coupled to arm 404 for rotation about axis 414. Arm 416 iscoupled to arm 412 for rotation about axis 418. Coupler 417 is coupledto an opposite end of arm 416 for rotation about axis 420. Finally,coupler 417 is coupled to display 24. Therefore, arm assembly 400 can bemoved to position display 24 in a plurality of different positionsrelative to bed 402 for viewing by a caregiver and/or a patient, and forentering information into computer 12 via display 24 by the caregiverand/or patient.

FIG. 23 illustrates arm 404 pivoted to a substantially horizontalposition, arm 412 pivoted outwardly from bed 402, arm 416 pivoteddownwardly, and display 24 angled for viewing and facilitating entry ofinformation into computer 12 by a caregiver 204 using display 24. FIG.24 illustrates arm assembly 400 positioned so that display 24 isaccessible by a patient. Therefore, the patient can view display 24 forinformation or entertainment and can also enter information intocomputer 12 via display 24.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.25-27. In this embodiment, arm 404 is pivotally coupled to a slidingmember 430 for rotation about an axis 434. Sliding member 430 includesan arm 432 coupled to arm 404. Sliding member 430 is formed to slideonto a track member 436 connected to a head end 408 of bed frame 406 asbest shown in FIG. 26. Track member 436 illustratively includes a headportion 440, notches 442, 444, and a foot portion 441 connected to bedframe 406. Flanges 446, 448 on sliding member 430 enter notches 442,444, respectively, to movably couple sliding member 430 to track member436 on bed 402. Sliding member 430 is slideable back and forth in thedirection of double headed arrow 450 shown in FIGS. 26 and 27.Therefore, arm assembly 400 can be positioned at a plurality of desiredpositions along head end 408 of bed 402. In another embodiment, slidingmember 430 is slideable on a track extending around the entire outerperiphery of bed 402 to position arm assembly 400 in any of a pluralityof desired locations around bed 402.

In the illustrated embodiment, arms 432, 404, 412, and 416 are coupledtogether by a plurality of detents to hold the arms at desired locationsrelative to each other. It is understood that other types of lockingmechanisms and clutch mechanisms can be used to hold the arms in desiredrelative positions. FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate a first connector 452 ofarm 416 pivotably coupled to arm 404 for rotation about axis 454. Arm416 is coupled to another arm 456 for rotation about a longitudinal axis458. Detent balls 460 are spring biased downwardly in the direction ofarrow 462 by springs 464. Balls 460 enter recesses 466 formed in topsurface 468 of arm 456 to hold arms 416 and 456 in selected orientationsrelative to each other. Arm 456 also includes a pair of extensions 453that each include a pin 455 for extending into openings formed in acoupler 457 connected to display 24 as best shown in FIG. 29. Coupler457 and display 24 can thus be rotated about pins 455.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.30-34. In this embodiment, a bed 500 includes siderails 502 mounted onopposite sides of bed frame 504. A display carrier 506 includes aU-shaped body portion 508 including an open end 510 slideable oversiderail 502 in the direction of arrow 512 shown in FIG. 30. FIG. 31illustrates carrier 506 installed on siderail 502. As best shown inFIGS. 32 and 33, carrier 506 includes first and second side portions514, 516. Each side portion 514, 516 includes spaced apart tracks 518,520 configured to receive a removable display 524 which functions in thesame manner as display 24 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 4, 5A,and 5B.

Display 524 is slideably inserted into tracks 518, 520 on either sideportion 514, 516 of carrier 506. Display 524 is also moveable to anangled position (shown in FIGS. 31 and 33) extending through slots 526,528 formed in tracks 518, 520 of side portion 516, respectively, andheld in place by tabs 530, 532 which engage opposite sides of display524. Therefore, a caregiver can view display 524 and enter informationusing display 524 as discussed above.

In operation, carrier 506 is installed on siderail 502 on either side ofbed 500. If desired, a suitable fastener such as a screw, bolt, strap,or Velcro® fastener may be used to attach carrier 506 to siderail 502.Display 524 is then removable from tracks 518, 520 so that display 524is accessible to the patient or caregiver. FIGS. 31 and 33 illustratedisplay 524 accessible by caregiver 204. As shown in FIG. 34, display524 may also be removed from carrier 506. In this variation of thedescribed embodiment, a cable 534 is coupled to display 524 and tocomputer 12 as discussed above. A patient can then orient display 524 ina desired manner to position and utilize display 524 for viewinginformation or entertainment programs and/or entering information andcommands, accessing and creating messages, or using the Internet asdiscussed herein.

FIGS. 35-39 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention. Inthis embodiment, display 24 is mounted to an overhead arm assembly 550.Arm assembly 550 includes a Y-shaped arm 552 having a central portion554 and arms 556, 558 extending from central portion 554. Arms 556, 558cannot move relative to central portion 554. As best shown in FIG. 36,arm assembly 550 further includes arms 560, 562 which are pivotablycoupled at one end to arm 552 adjacent the junction between centralportion 554 and arms 556, 558 by pivot connection 564. Arms 556, 558 andthe other ends of arms 560, 562 are movably connected to tracks 584mounted to ceiling 585. Each of arms 556, 558, 560, and 562 are coupledto tracks 584 by drive assemblies 566.

Referring now to FIGS. 37-39, drive assemblies 566 include a bodyportion 568 and a motor 570 coupled to body portion 568. As shown inFIG. 39, motor 570 is configured to rotate a shaft 572 which, via gears,threads, or other interface (not shown), rotates a drive shaft 574.Drive shaft 574 rotates drive wheels 576 located in recesses 578 of bodyportion 568. It is understood that other suitable drive linkages may beused to rotate wheels 576. Wheels 576 are also in communication withelongated slots 580 formed on opposite sides of body portion 568. Asbest shown in FIG. 37, slots 580 are sized to receive flanges 582 oftracks 584. Wheels 576 engage flanges 582 to move body portions 568 backand forth within tracks 584 in the direction of double headed arrow 586in FIG. 37. Body portion 568 further includes a mounting section 588configured to be coupled to arms 556, 558, 560 and 562 to permitrotation of arms 556, 558, 560, and 562 relative to mounting section 588as best illustrated in FIGS. 37 and 38.

Referring back to FIGS. 35 and 36, a controller (not shown) isconfigured to control motors 570 to move drive assemblies 566 withintracks 584, thereby moving the upper ends of arms 556, 558, 560 and 562along tracks 584. As should be apparent from the figures, as the upperends of arms 556, 558, 560, and 562 move along tracks 584, display 24 ismoved toward and away from bed 500 in the direction of double headedarrow 586. Additionally, as drive assemblies 566 move the upper ends ofarms 560, 562 toward and away from the upper ends of arms 556, 558,display 24 is moved up and down relative to ceiling 585. FIG. 35illustrates arm assembly 550 (and display 24) located adjacent ceiling585 in a raised position. In FIG. 35, a patient in bed 500 can viewdisplay 24. Display 524 can also be rotated about axis 590 so that thecaregiver can view display 24. FIG. 36 illustrates the orientation ofarm assembly 550 to lower display 24 for use by the caregiver. It shouldbe understood that display 24 may also be positioned in the loweredposition for use by the patient.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 40and 41. In this embodiment, a display 600 is mounted on wall 602adjacent bed 500, and supported by arm assembly 601. Illustratively,display 600 includes first and second screens 604, 606. Dual displayscreens 604, 606 are described in detail in the '580 Application. Armassembly includes a bracket 612 coupled to wall 602, a first arm 608coupled to bracket 612 for rotation about an axis 609, a second arm 610movably coupled to arm 608 by coupler 603, and a display coupler 605connected between arm 610 and display 600 to permit movement of display600 about axis 611. FIG. 40 illustrates display 600 oriented for use bya caregiver in a retracted position adjacent wall 602 for viewinginformation on screens 604, 606. In FIG. 41, first and second arms 608,610 are extended. In this extended position, arm 608 may be pivotedabout axis 609 at bracket 612 and display 600 may be pivoted about axis611 at display coupler 605 to position display 600 for use by thepatient. Bracket 612 may be pivotably coupled to wall 602 or may beslideably coupled to wall 602 to move back and forth in the direction ofdouble headed arrow 614.

FIGS. 42-63 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention. Adisplay 624 similar to display 24 discussed above is shown in FIG. 42.Display 624 is mounted on an arm 626. It should be understood, however,that display 24 may be mounted to any of the equipment described herein,and supported by any of the arm assemblies or other display supportsdescribed herein. Display 624 includes a touch screen control panel 628that displays a plurality of caregiver icons 630 and a plurality ofpatient icons 632. By activating one of the icons, menus are called upand displayed on touch screen 628. It should be understood that touchscreen control panel 628 may employ any of a variety of conventionaltouch screen technologies and be embodied as a touch screen that ispressure sensitive, or activated by changes in magnetic field,capacitance, resistance, or optical interference. For convenience, thisdescription will refer to icons on screens of touch screen control panel628 as being “activated” or “touched.”

Illustratively, patient control icons 632 are always displayed.Caregiver icons 630 may only be displayed when an authorized caregiveris in the room. Computer 12 (not shown in FIG. 42) can receiveinformation from a nurse tracking system to automatically displaycaregiver icons 630 when a caregiver enters the room. More specifically,display 624 may include, for example, an RFID sensor 625 that detects anRFID tag worn by a nurse, and display caregiver icons 630 upondetermining from identification information transmitted by the tag thatthe nurse is an authorized caregiver.

FIG. 43 illustrates caregiver icons 630 and patient icons 632 in moredetail. Caregiver icons 630 illustratively include a bed control icon634, a CPR icon 636, a mattress control icon 638, a scale control icon640, a patient position monitoring (PPM) icon 642, a charting icon 644,and a med scan icon 646. Patient icons 632 illustratively include a bedcontrol icon 648, a nurse call icon 650, a television control icon 652,a music control icon 654, an environment control icon 656, an Interneticon 658, and a telephone control icon 660.

FIG. 44 illustrates a sample bed control screen displayed on touchscreen 628 when caregiver bed control icon 634 is pressed. Theillustrated bed control screen includes controls 660 for moving variousdeck sections of a bed (not shown), controls 662 for moving the bed footsections, hi/lo controls 664 for raising and lowering the bed, andadditional deck adjustment controls 666 for tilting the bed orpositioning the bed in a flat or chair position. Typically, a bedcontrol screen displayed upon activation of patient bed control icon 648(as opposed to caregiver bed control icon 634) will include headup/down, knee up/down, chair, and vascular controls. FIG. 55 illustratessample patient bed controls displayed on screen 628 when patient bedcontrol icon 648 is activated. These controls include head up/downcontrols 651, knee up/down controls 653, foot controls 655, and chairposition controls 657. Caregiver bed controls will typically include bedhi/lo, head up/down, knee up/down, Trendelenburg and reverseTrendelenburg positions, foot adjust, chair, and vascular controls.

CPR icon 636 automatically activates a code blue condition. Activationof mattress control icon 338 illustratively results in the screen shownin FIG. 45. In an illustrated embodiment, the caregiver can control amattress controller (not shown) coupled to computer 12 that providesturn assist, continuous lateral rotation therapy, percussion andvibration therapy, normal inflation, max inflation, and heel suspensionusing, for example, a Zone Air® mattress available from Hill-Rom Companyof Batesville, Ind.

Activation of scale icon 640 illustratively results in the screen shownin FIG. 46 which displays operating instructions in directions area 659and control functions for a bed scale in control area 661.

If the patient positioning monitoring icon 642 is touched, then thescreen shown in FIG. 47 is displayed on screen 628. The caregiver canactivate features of a patient position monitoring system (not shown)coupled to computer 12 by activating the icons on screen 628. Thecaregiver can enable the bed exit alert by touching icon 665, the comaalert by touching icon 667, and the sit up alert by touching icon 669.

When charting icon 644 is touched, an overall chart is displayed onscreen 628. A nurse can enter information into the chart. In addition, aMAR and lab menu may be displayed on screen 628.

When med scan icon 646 is touched, screens are displayed on screen 628to perform the functions discussed above in connection with FIGS. 3A and3B. First, an image similar to that shown in FIG. 48 is displayed onscreen 628 advising the caregiver to scan the patient or otherwise enterpatient identification information into computer 12. As explained above,the caregiver either uses a bar code scanner to scan a bar code on apatient wristband or other location or a receiver automatically receivesa transmission from a badge or tag associated with the patient. Computer12 then generates the screen shown in FIG. 49 that includes thepatient's name, time, scheduled medications to give, scheduled dose togive, and methods of administration. An image or photo 647 of thepatient is also illustratively displayed to confirm that the patient isthe correct patient.

Next, computer 12 displays an image similar to that shown in FIG. 50 onscreen 628 advising the caregiver to scan medication 42. The caregivercan use a bar code scanner or a receiver can automatically receive inputfrom a transmitter associated with medication 42. Next, computer 12generates the screen shown in FIG. 51 including an image 668 on screen628 of the detected medication. In addition, information such as themedication name, dose, and method of administration are displayed onscreen 628. The caregiver can then verify that medication 42 matchesimage 668 displayed on screen 628. The caregiver can either touch theaccept icon 670 or the refuse icon 672 on screen 678, depending uponwhether medication 42 matches. If accept icon 670 is touched, thencomputer 12 displays an image similar to that shown in FIG. 52 on screen628 advising the caregiver to scan medication 42 again, which may beaccomplished in the manner described above. For example, medication 42can include a transmitter that automatically transmits informationrelated to medication 42 to a receiver in the room or to sensor 625(FIG. 42) of display 624. Computer 12 then automatically bills thepatient for the particular dosage of medication 42. Computer 12 nextdisplays an image similar to that shown in FIG. 53 on screen 628 topermit the caregiver to indicate whether medication 42 given to thepatient was held down. If the yes icon 674 is touched, then computer 12charts the dosage of medication 42 given to the patient. If medication42 was not held down and the no icon 676 is touched, then computer 12does not chart medication 42 on the patient's record. However, thepatient is still billed for medication 42.

FIG. 54 illustrates a screen showing various lock out icons available tothe caregiver by manipulating appropriate icons on screen 628. When anauthorized caregiver is detected at display 624, for example, by sensor625, a lock out icon (not shown) may be displayed to the caregiver. Bytouching the lock out icon, the caregiver may be presented with thescreen of FIG. 54. This lock out screen includes a normal inflate icon671, a max inflate icon 673, a master icon 675, a hi-low icon 677, apause/transport icon 679, a zone air icon 681, a head icon 683, a kneeicon 685, and a key icon 687. The caregiver can prevent patient accessto any of the functions associated with the above-mentioned icons bytouching the corresponding icon. For example, by touching normal inflateicon 671, the caregiver can prevent the patient from operating thenormal inflate function of the bed. A lock indicator 689 is displayednear the icon associated with a locked out function. The caregiver canunlock the function by first touching key icon 687, and then touchingthe icon associated with the function the caregiver wishes to unlock.

If nurse call icon 650 of FIG. 43 is activated, then a screen such asthat shown in FIG. 56 is displayed to permit the patient to morespecifically communicate the patient's need to the nurse. When thepatient touches any of the displayed icons, computer 12 provides amessage to the appropriate nurse via nurse call system 36 that includesan indication of the patient need associated with the icon pressed bythe patient. Alternatively, screen 628 of FIG. 57 may be generated forproviding a video conference and volume control.

Referring now to FIG. 58, if television control icon 652 is touched, ascreen is generated including channel up/down icons 689, 691, volumeup/down icons 693, 695, a TV guide icon 697 with up/down icons 699, 701,next/previous icons 703, 705, and a select icon 707, a hide controlsicon 709, and a number pad 711. The patient may use screen 628 as aninterface to control the channel and volume of the hospital roomtelevision by manipulating icons 689, 691, 693, 695 or number pad 711.The patient may activate hide controls icon 709 to remove theabove-described television controls from screen 628, or computer 12 mayautomatically hide the controls after a predetermined period of non-use.When the patient touches TV guide icon 697, a screen such as that shownin FIG. 59 is generated on screen 628 to provide a listing of channelsand programming (not shown) and additional information relating tochannels and programs in information area 713.

Referring to FIG. 60, when music control icon 654 is touched, the screenshown in FIG. 60 is generated to permit the user to control a radio orother music device coupled to computer 12. The music control screen ofFIG. 60 includes a music control area 715 having seek/up/down icons,tune-up/down icons, and volume up/down icon, and a bed control area 717having various bed controls. For digital audio signals, channel up/down,volume up/down, and song information icons may also be provided onscreen 628.

When environment control icon 656 of FIG. 43 is touched, a roomenvironment control screen is displayed on screen 628 as shown in FIG.61. The room environment control screen includes room temperatureup/down icons 719A, B, bed temperature up/down icons 721A, B, lightingup/down icons 723A, B, reading light up/down icons 725A, B, windowcurtain open/close icons 727A, B, and privacy curtain open/close icons729A, B. Accordingly, the patient or caregiver can adjust the roomtemperature using room temperature up/down icons 719A, B, and adjust thebed temperature using bed temperature up/down icons 721A, B. Similarly,the lights and curtains in the room may be adjusted using the variouslight and curtain control icons mentioned above. When a light is turnedoff or a curtain is fully closed, an off indicator 723C positioned onscreen 628 adjacent the corresponding light or curtain control isactivated. Similarly, when a light is adjusted to maximum brightness ora curtain is fully opened, an on indicator 723D is activated.

When Internet icon 658 is touched, a customized home page or otherInternet connection is made. When telephone control icon 660 icon istouched, large numeric dialing icons 731 appear on screen 628 as shownin FIG. 62. The telephone control screen further includes volume controlicons 733, a caller ID area 735, and a video icon 737 that enables avideo screen if the system is equipped with a video telephonecapability.

FIG. 63 illustrates a patient voice simulator displayed on screen 628 inaccordance with the present invention. The patient can touch the variousicons 739 to indicate conditions or symptoms and can respond toquestions using “yes” icon 741 or “no” icon 743. When an icon 739 isactivated, a speaker in the room or in a remote location generates asimulated voice to pose a question or make a statement relating to thesubject matter of the icon 739.

As described in greater detail below, additional icons may include gameicons for activating games that can be played using display 628.Moreover, the principles of the present invention may be applied toenable the patient to access the hospital Intranet to learn aboutillnesses, order meals, order from the gift shop, provide dischargeplanning (what to do once the patient is at home), document their care,view advertisements related to products and services, check the bill,complete surveys, access doctors, nurses, and religious material,investigate alternative treatments, plan diets, and schedule doctorvisits and lab tests after discharge. In addition, the patient canreview the schedule for the day including bath, meals, surgery, andtests, access a tutorial to explain how procedures will work, accessinformation and pictures of caregivers, send messages to caregivers,access hospital maps and navigation systems, access fire exitinformation which is automatically connected to the fire alarm, access arequired rights sign off indicating who can visit the patient, andaccess reference material including a medical dictionary andpharmaceutical references.

FIGS. 64 and 65 illustrate another embodiment of the present inventionin which display 24 is coupled to a retracting cable 700 supported by anarm 702. Arm 702 is coupled to a support 704 on a wall. In anillustrated embodiment, arm 702 can pivot relative to support 704. Inanother embodiment, arm 702 can slide back and forth in the direction ofdouble headed arrow 706. Cable 700 is retractable and extendable (manualor motorized) from arm 702 in the direction of double headed arrow 708to adjust the height of display 24. A second arm assembly 710 includingfirst and second adjustable arms 712 and 714 supports another display716 for use by caregiver 204. As shown in FIG. 65, a flexible keyboard718 is illustratively stored in a pocket or receptacle 720 on the backof display 24. Illustratively, the flexible keyboard may be a Flexboardkeyboard available from Starcover GmbH located in Teltow, Germany. Thepatient can remove flexible keyboard 718 to enter information intocomputer 12. In addition, the patient 212 can use touch screen controlpanel 628 to enter information as described above.

FIGS. 66-68 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention inwhich first and second arm assemblies 722 and 724 are coupled to support704 by a coupler 726. Each arm assembly 722, 724 includes a first arm728 that is pivotally coupled at one end to coupler 726 and pivotallycoupled at another end to a second arm 730. Each of second arms 730 ismovably coupled to a display 24. The movable connections between support704, couplers 726, arms 728, 730, and displays 24 permit positioning ofdisplays 24 at various locations for viewing by caregiver 204 or apatient. FIG. 66 depicts displays 24 positioned for simultaneous viewingby both caregiver 204 and the patient. FIG. 68 shows displays 24positioned side-by-side. This embodiment further includes a table 732having a table top 738, a keyboard 734 and a pivotable lid 740. Anadjustable pedestal 736 supports table top 738. Keyboard 734 is coupled(wirelessly or with wires) to computer 12 (not shown) and functions asan input device for the user. A mouse 742 is also shown in FIG. 67 as anadditional input device.

FIGS. 69 and 70 are similar to FIGS. 66 and 68, respectively, exceptthat arm assemblies 722, 724 are coupled to separate supports 750 and752, respectively.

Referring now to FIGS. 71-73, another embodiment of the invention isshown wherein display 24 is coupled to a cable 754. Cable 754 is coupledto arms 756, 758 which extend and retract, for example, telescopically,as indicated by arrow 760. Arm 758 is coupled to a coupler 762 that ismovable along support 704 in the direction of double headed arrow 764.Cable 754 is retractable and extendable into and out of a spool 755coupled to one end of arm 756. Extension and retraction of cable 754 maybe accomplished either manually or by a motor drive (not shown). As bestillustrated in FIG. 72, display 24 can be inserted into a support track780 on an over bed table 782. Support track 780 is a lid that pivotsdown to cover a keyboard 784. Display 24 can be inserted into track 780in the direction of arrow 786 to facilitate use by the patient.

In this embodiment, another arm assembly 766 is coupled to anothersupport 757 that is attached to the wall. Arm assembly 766 includes acoupler 759 movably attached to support 757, a first arm 768 that ispivotally coupled to coupler 759, and a second arm 770 that is pivotallycoupled at one end to first arm 768 and movably coupled at the other endto a support 772. Support 772 includes grip handles 774 and an inputdevice such as a keyboard 776. A second display 778 is coupled tosupport 772. FIG. 73 depicts display 24 being moved into position onsupport 772 adjacent display 778.

FIG. 74 illustrates another embodiment of the present inventionincluding a display support 800. Display support 800 may be attached toa wall by an arm assembly, mounted to an over bed table, mounted to thebed, or supported in any other manner disclosed herein. Support 800includes a fixed display 802 including a controller or input device 804.A grip handle 806 extends along the front of support 800. Another inputdevice such as keyboard 808 may be located adjacent to handle 806.Additionally, a second display 24 is provided. Display 24 is coupled toa U-shaped support 810 to pivot about axis 812. Display 24 is suspendedfrom a cable 814 as described above with reference to FIGS. 64 and 65.As indicated in FIG. 74, display 24 may be installed on support 800adjacent to fixed display 802.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 75.In this embodiment, display 24 is coupled to U-shaped support 810 asdescribed with reference to FIG. 74. Cable 814 is retractable into andextendable from a spool 816 suspended from ceiling 818 by a connector820. Connector 820 permits spool 816 to pivot or rotate to facilitatepositioning of display 24 at various locations within the room. Spool816 may be a conventional self-retracting cable spool or it may be motordriven to automatically extend and retract cable 814. A stop 822 iscoupled to cable 814 to prevent cable 814 from retracting too far intospool 816 for display 24 to be reached. Cable 814 can be extended toposition display 24 on a support or table 824 (as shown in dotted linesin FIG. 75), or any other location within the room.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 76.This embodiment is similar to that of FIG. 75, except that display 24 issupported by an arm assembly 830 that is attached to an H-shaped support834. Support 834 includes tracks 831, 833 and movable member 835. Tracks831, 833 define channels 837, 839, respectively, for receiving an end ofmovable member 835. Accordingly, movable member 835 can slide or moveback and forth in the direction of arrows 841. Movable member 835supports arm assembly 830, which illustratively includes a plurality oftelescopic members 843, 845, 847, 849 that permit adjustment of theposition of display 24 in the direction of arrow 832. Telescopic member843 is received by a channel 851 formed in movable member 835. Thus, armassembly 830 is movable back and forth in the direction of arrows 853.Telescopic member 849 is coupled to support 810, which permitsadjustment of the position of display 24 in the manner described above.Accordingly, arm assembly 830 and display 24 may be moved to a pluralityof different orientations over bed 838.

An alternative embodiment of arm assembly 830 is illustrated in FIGS.77-79. As best shown in FIG. 77, arm assembly 830A generally includes amount assembly 853 for attachment to the room ceiling, a first arm 855coupled to mount assembly 853, a second arm 857 coupled to first arm855, a third arm 859 coupled to second arm 857, and a display support861 coupled to third arm 859. As described below, the various componentsof arm assembly 830A are movably connected to one another to permitadjustment of the position over bed 838 of a display 24 (not shown)mounted in display support 861.

Referring now to FIG. 78, mount assembly 853 includes a plate 863 thatis attached to the room ceiling, a housing 865 that is coupled to plate863, and a ring 867 that is coupled to housing 865 in an annular groovefor rotation about axis 869. As shown, first arm 855 is attached to ring867. Housing 865 further includes a central bore 871 and internalbearings 873 to facilitate rotational movement of ring 867 on housing865. A wire 875 (one shown) is routed through central bore 871 from aconnector 877 to a slip ring 879. While only one wire 875 is shown, itshould be understood that multiple wires may be routed in the mannerdescribed herein. Wire 875 is further routed from slip ring 879 to apair of connectors 881 and through first arm 855.

As shown in FIG. 79, first arm 855 further includes a slip ring 883 andan internal opening for receiving a stem 885 of second arm 857 to permitrotation of second arm 857 as indicated by arrow 887. Second arm 857also includes a body 889 that is pivotally coupled at one end to stem885 and pivotally coupled at another end to coupler 889A. Accordingly,body 889 may be pivoted relative to stem 885 as indicated by arrow 891.A locking gas spring 893 is disposed within body 889 and connectedbetween stem 885 and coupler 889A to assist in lifting of display 24. Acounter-balance arm 895 is connected between body 889 and locking gasspring 893. As also indicated in FIG. 79 by arrow 897, coupler 889A ispivotable about its connection to body 889.

Third arm 859 includes a coupler 899 that is movably connected tocoupler 889A to permit rotation of coupler 899 (and third arm 859) asindicated by arrow 901. Third arm 859 further includes an L-shaped body903 connected at one end to coupler 899 and connected at the other endto body 905 of display support 861 to permit rotation of display support861 as indicated by arrow 907. Display support 861 includes a handle 909and an arm 911 coupled to body 905. Arm 911 supports a mounting plate913 for receiving display 24. As shown, wire 875 is routed through thevarious components of arm assembly 830A and through an opening 915 inmounting plate 913 to a connector 917. Display 24 is electricallyconnected to connector 917. Accordingly, arm assembly 830A permitspositioning of display 24 at various locations and orientations abovebed 838.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 80-83, display 24 is mounted onU-shaped support 810 in the manner described above. U-shaped support 810is coupled to an arm assembly 854, which is connected to rollers 856.Rollers 856 are configured to move along a U-shaped track 850 that isattached to the ceiling of the room. Rollers 856 guide the position ofdisplay 24 around track 850. FIGS. 81-83 illustrate differentorientations of tracks 860, 862, 864, and 866 relative to bed 838 inaccordance with other embodiments of the present invention. It should beunderstood that tracks 850, 864, and 866 may also be used to support apatient support device such as a sling or harness coupled to armassembly 854 in place of display 24. Accordingly, the patient may beassisted by the arm assembly 854 and track as the patient walks aroundbed 838.

FIGS. 84-86 illustrate a three-position computer turntable in accordancewith another embodiment of the present invention. The computer (notshown) and display monitor 870 are mounted on a rotating turntable 872.The position of turntable 872 is controlled either manually or by amotor (not shown). FIG. 86 illustrates that monitor 870 may bepositioned for viewing in the hallway 874 and in first and second rooms876, 878 depending upon the orientation of monitor 870. Monitor 870 isvisible through windows 880, 882 in rooms 876, 878, respectively.Separate keyboards or other data entry devices 884, 886 and 888 arelocated in hallway 874 and rooms 876, 878, respectively.

As best shown in FIG. 85, a manual drive 890 for turntable 872 mayinclude a handle 919 rotatably connected to a disk 921 and shaft 923.Shaft 923 is rotatably connected to a table or shelf 925. Drive 890further includes a belt 892 that extends around shaft 923 and a shaft894 coupled to table 872. Shaft 894 is connected to a display support927. Thus, rotation of disk 921 using handle 919 causes rotation of belt892 and shaft 894, thereby rotating display support 927 and display 870.As shown in FIG. 86, a separate manual drive 890 may be provided inhallway 874 and each of rooms 876, 878. Therefore, monitor 870 may berotated to the desired position for viewing.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.87-89. In this embodiment, a dual screen display 900 is coupled to arotatable support arm 902 located adjacent in an electronic LCD window904. A retractable stool 906 is moveable from an extended position to aretracted position shown in dotted lines in FIGS. 87 and 88. Display 900is also pivotable between a first position shown in FIGS. 87 and 88 foruse in room 908 and a second position shown in dotted lines in FIGS. 87and 88 so that display 900 can be viewed from hallway 910 by a user 912.As should be apparent from the drawings, movement of stool 906 from theretracted position to the extended position is translated via linkage929 (shown as a belt) to movement of display 900 from the secondposition to the first position. Thus, when a user in room 908 desires toview display 900 and use user input device 931, the user may move stool906 to the extended position. A separate keyboard or input device 914 islocated in hallway 910.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 90and 91. In this embodiment, a rotatable carousel 920 is configured tosupport a computer/monitor 922 for access in room 924, room 926 andhallway 928. Carousel 920 may be moved manually or moved by a motor (notshown). Carousel 920 is configured to be supported on and rotate about ashaft 933. As shown in FIG. 91, a supply container 930 is also rotatablewith carousel 920.

FIGS. 92-94 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention inwhich a display 950 is coupled to a moveable support 952 mounted to asiderail 956. Display 950 performs the function of display 24 discussedabove. Display 950 is pivotable outwardly from support 952 in thedirection of arrow 958 of FIG. 93 to an extended position. As shown,support 952 includes an arm 960 secured to support 952 by joint 962.Therefore, arm 960 (and display 950) can move along siderail 956 in thedirection of arrow 953, and pivot about first and second axes 964 and966.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.95-99. In this embodiment, a display 970 is coupled to siderail 956 by alinkage 972. As best shown in FIG. 96, linkage 972 includes a pair ofarms 935 that are pivotally coupled to movable support 952A at pins 937and pivotally coupled to display 970 at pins 939. Thus, display 970 ismovable vertically relative to siderail 956 as indicated by arrow 941.Additionally, pins 937 are mounted in a housing 937A that is pivotallycoupled to movable support 952A at pins 943, and pins 939 are mounted toa bracket 945 that is pivotally coupled to display 970 at pins 945A.Thus, linkage 972 may also be pivoted in the direction of arrow 947, anddisplay 970 may also be pivoted in the direction of arrow 949. Display970 may also be moved along siderail 956 in the direction of arrow 971.FIGS. 95 and 98 show display 970 in an extended position. FIG. 99 showsdisplay 970 in a retracted position within movable support 952A. Aspeaker 974 is also shown as a component of movable support 952A.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.100-102. In this embodiment, a display 1000 is coupled to a footboard1002 of a bed 1004 by a support 1006. Support 1006 is pivotable from afirst position shown in FIG. 100 upwardly as indicated by arrow 1007 toa vertical position shown in FIG. 102 for viewing by the patient. Whendisplay 1000 is moved from the position shown in FIG. 100 to theposition shown in FIG. 102, the software in computer 12 (not shown)inverts the image on display 1000 so that is readable by the patient.Support 1006 is also moveable to any of a plurality of intermediatepositions such as that shown in FIG. 101 to facilitate viewing and/ordata entry by a caregiver. Support 1006 is coupled to footboard 1002 bysuitable fasteners that include a locking mechanism such as detents orother clutch mechanisms to hold support 1006 in the desired positionrelative to footboard 1002.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.103-108. In this embodiment, an overbed table 1009 includes a slidingtabletop 1010 coupled to a base support 1012. Support 1012 is coupled toan adjustable height pedestal 1014 supported by a base 1016. Tabletop1010 can move back and forth in the direction of double headed arrow1018 to expose a display 1020 located in a recess 1022 of base support1012. As shown in FIG. 104, display 1020 is supported by a retractablearm assembly 1024 which can move into and out of recess 1022 in thedirection of arrow 1026. As shown in FIGS. 105-108, another arm 1028 isrotatably coupled to arm assembly 1024. Display 1020 is coupled to arm1028 by an arm segment 1030 and a coupler 1032 so that display 1020 canbe moved to a plurality of different positions as shown in FIGS.105-108. More specifically, arm 1028 may be rotated about axis 951, armsegment 1030 may be rotated about axis 953, and coupler 1032 may berotated about axis 955.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.109-111. In this embodiment of an overbed table 1011, display 1020 iscoupled to a retractable cable 1040 so that display 1020 can be movedbetween a storage position to various different positions shown in FIGS.109-111. As shown in FIGS. 110 and 111, a collapsible support 957 may beconnected to the back of display 1020 to support display 1020 in atilted position on, for example, overbed table 1011 for viewing.

Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 112and 113 wherein an overbed table 1050 is shown docked to a bed 1052. Abase 1054 of overbed table 1050 includes a connector 1056 that mateswith a connector 1058 (FIG. 113) mounted to bed 1052 under bed baseframe 1060 to supply electrical power and/or route other electricalsignals to and from a display 1062 in overbed table 1050. In anotherembodiment, a retractable cord (not shown) is coupled to overbed table1050 to supply power from bed 1052 to display 1062.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 114 and 115, an overbed table 1070includes a plurality of solar cells 1072 on a base 1074. Solar cells1072 are used to power a wireless keyboard 1073 or a monitor (not shown)on table 1070. A battery (not shown) may be charged by solar cells 1072using a trickle charge. At night, a light 1078 (FIG. 115) mounted to aframe 1078A of a bed 1078B may be used to provide light for solar cells1072.

Another embodiment of a computer in an overbed table is shown in FIGS.116A, B. In this embodiment, an overbed table 959 includes a top 961attached to an adjustable height support 963 supported by a base 965. Alinkage 967 is connected to top 961. Linkage 967 includes a first arm969, a second arm 971, and a bracket 973. First arm 969 is movablyconnected at one end to top 961 and movably connected at the other endto second arm 971. Second arm 971 is connected to bracket 973 such thatdisplay 1070 attached to bracket 973 may be rotated from a horizontalposition to a vertical position. By manipulating linkage 967, a patientmay position display 1070 for private viewing.

Another embodiment of a computer in an overbed table is shown in FIG.117. In this embodiment of an overbed table 1013, a display 1072 ismovable from a folded down, storage position in a tray 1074 to adeployed viewing position. In one embodiment, tray 1074 is pivotable inthe direction of arrow 1075 under table top 1076 for storage. In anotherembodiment, tray 1074 slides in the direction of arrow 1077 between astorage and an in-use position. Additional details of overbed tables,including those described herein, are disclosed in a patent applicationowned by the applicant entitled “OVERBED TABLE FOR USE WITH A PATIENTSUPPORT,” filed concurrently with this application, the disclosure ofwhich is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 118 illustrates another embodiment of the present inventionincluding a projector assembly 1100 for projecting an image on a screenor digitizer. Projector assembly 1100 generally includes a projector1102, a first motor 1104 connected to a U-shaped bracket 1106 forsupporting projector 1102, a second motor 1107 connected between bracket1106 and a mounting plate 1108 for mounting assembly 1100 to a ceiling.First motor 1104 permits rotation of projector 1102 about axis 1110, andsecond motor 1107 permits rotation of projector 1102 about axis 1112.Projector 1102 further includes a pair of IR receivers 1114 for trackingmovement of a screen as further described below, and a lens 1116, suchas an auto-focus lens. As indicated in FIG. 118, projector 1102 iscoupled to a CPU 1118, which controls the position of projector 1102 andthe content of the projected image. Projector assembly 1110 alsoincludes a clear protective dome 1120 made from plastic or anothersuitable material.

Also shown in FIG. 118 are displays or screens 1124, 1128 mounted atvarious locations in room 1122. It should be understood that additionalscreens may be mounted at additional locations such as on a bed, amedication cart, a wall, etc. Specifically, screen 1124 is mounted to atable 1126 located, for example, in a family area of room 1122. Screen1128 is mounted to an overbed table 1130 such as any of the plurality ofoverbed tables described herein, and includes a pair of IR transmitters1132. One or more than two transmitters 1132 may alternatively be used.FIG. 118 also shows an image 1134 projected onto a wall 1136. Screens1124, 1128 include a translucent lens and a touch screen mounted to thelens. Accordingly, projector 1102 may project images onto back surfacesof screens 1124, 1128 such that the images are visible from the front ofscreens 1124, 1128. Thus, the user does not obstruct or interfere withthe projection of images onto screens 1124, 1128. It should beunderstood that CPU 1118 includes angle compensation software to permitprojection of images onto tilted surfaces that may otherwise not sufficeas projection surfaces. A user can then actuate areas or icons displayedon the touch screen surface of screens 1124, 1128. Such actuation causesthe system to send a signal from the screen 1124, 1128 to CPU 1118, andmay result in a different image or other action by the system in themanner described above.

Projector 1102 may automatically track the location of screen 1128mounted to movable overbed table 1130. Transmitters 1132 provide signalsto receivers 1114 of projector 1102. Tracking software of CPU 1118permits CPU 1118 to detect movement of screen 1128, and adjust theposition of projector 1102 by operating motors 1104, 1107 to compensatefor the movement and continuously project an image or series of imagesonto screen 1128 while overbed table 1130 is in motion. The motiontracking function described above may be activated when screen 1128 israised to an in-use position such as that shown in FIG. 118. In anotherembodiment, when screen 1128 is powered via a power switch (not shown),CPU 1118 is signaled to activate the motion tracking function.

Projector 1102 may also be used to provide a big screen television asindicated by image 1134 projected onto wall 1136. Of course, image 1134could also be displayed on a curtain or other acceptable surfaceavailable in room 1122. By providing image 1134 in a very large format,caregivers could select displays of charts or other informationintensive material for easy viewing.

Referring now to FIG. 119, an overbed table 1200 according to anotherembodiment of the present invention includes a base 1212 and atelescoping support column 1214 that supports first and second tablesections 1216, 1218. In the following description, first table section1216 may also be referred to as an upper table, and second table section1218 may also be referred to as a food tray. First and second tablesections 1216, 1218 are mounted in vertically spaced relation at anupper end of support column 1214. Illustratively, first table section1216 is positioned in spaced relation above second table section 1218,thereby defining a vertical space or an open region therebetween.

In a storage position, as illustrated in FIG. 120, second table section1218 is positioned below first table section 1216. In the use position,as illustrated in FIGS. 121 and 122, second table section 1218 is movedat least partially out from under first table section 1216.

Second table section 1218 illustratively includes a pair of handles 1292and 1294 to facilitate pivoting movement of second table section 1218about a pivot post (not shown). Handles 1292, 1294 are configured toextend outwardly from beneath opposing side edges 1298, 1299,respectively, of first table section 1216 when second table section 1218is in the storage position as shown in FIG. 120.

Table 1200 further includes a support arm 1304 that is supported withinthe open region between first and second table sections 1216, 1218 invertically spaced relation to both first and second table sections 1216,1218. Arm 1304 is supported for pivoting movement within a substantiallyhorizontal plane about a pivot post 1306 (FIG. 120). Arm 1304 movespivotally about pivot post 1306 between a storage position (FIGS. 119and 120) and a use position (FIG. 122).

Arm 1304 illustratively includes a substantially U-shaped portion 1316and a connecting portion 1318. U-shaped portion 1316 supports a pair ofhandles 1320, 1322 to facilitate pivoting movement of arm 1304 by apatient. Handles 1320, 1322 are configured to extend outwardly frombeneath the opposing side edges of first table section 1216. A displayscreen or device 1324 is supported by U-shaped portion 1316 of arm 1304by a coupler 1326.

With reference to FIG. 123, coupler 1326 includes a first body portion1328 supported for pivoting movement about a substantially horizontalfirst pivot axis 1330. A first pin 1332 couples first body portion 1328to U-shaped portion 1316 of arm 1304. A second body portion 1334 issupported by first body portion 1328 for pivoting movement about asecond pivot axis 1336 disposed substantially perpendicular to firstpivot axis 1330. A second pin 1338 couples second body portion 1334 tofirst body portion 1328. In turn, display device 1324 is fixed to secondbody portion 1334.

Display device 1324 includes first and second sides 1342,1344, withfirst side 1342 supporting a viewable surface 1346 and configured toface a head end of a bed. Display device 1324 illustratively comprises aconventional computer monitor wherein viewable surface 1346 comprises anelectronic display. A conventional mirror 1352 may be supported bysecond side 1344 of display device 1324 (FIG. 120). As may beappreciated, the user may alternatively use the electronic display andmirror 1352 by simply rotating display device 1324 about second pivotaxis 1336 by moving second body portion 1334 around second pin 1338. Inan illustrated embodiment, viewable surface 1346 of display device 1324may be defined by other conventional screens including, but not limitedto, a television screen, or a projection screen such as screens 1124,1128 of FIG. 118, or a conventional mirror. If viewable surface 1346 isa projection screen, then images may be projected from a remote locationonto the viewable surface 1346 in the manner described above withreference to FIG. 118.

A processor (not shown) is supported by table 1200 and is incommunication with display device 1324 through conventional transmissionmeans, which may include wires or a wireless transmitter and receiver(not shown). A power source in the form of a battery 1356 (FIG. 119) maylikewise be secured to support column 1214 and provide power to theprocessor and display device 1324.

A camera 1360, such as a video or digital still image camera, isillustratively supported by display device 1324. Camera 1360 is incommunication with the processor and may have power supplied by battery1356. In one illustrative embodiment, camera 1360 provides images to theprocessor which are then transmitted to viewable surface 1346. As such,viewable surface 1346, the processor, and camera 1360 define anelectronic mirror. In other words, the patient facing camera 1360 willsee his or her image electronically generated on viewable surface 1346.

Another embodiment of an overbed table 1410 is shown in FIG. 124. Table1410 includes a frame 1415 supporting a first table section 1412. Astorage tray 1414 is supported in vertical spaced relation below firsttable section 1412 and is configured to move within a substantiallyhorizontal plane in a direction generally perpendicular to alongitudinal axis 1415 of table section 1412. Display device 1324 iscoupled to first and second spaced apart arms 1416 and 1418 whichprovide for pivoting movement of display device 1324 from an open or useposition wherein display device 1324 is extending upwardly out ofstorage tray 1414 to a closed or storage position wherein display device1324 is received within storage tray 1414 below the horizontal planedefined by first table section 1412. As illustrated in FIG. 124, firstends 1420, 1422 of arms 1416, 1418, respectively, are pivotallyconnected to longitudinally extending side walls 1424, 1426 of storagetray 1414, while opposing second ends 1428, 1430 of arms 1416, 1418,respectively, are pivotally connected to an upper portion of displaydevice 1324. First ends 1420, 1422 of arms 1416, 1418 may be slidablyreceived within channels 1432 extending within side walls 1424,1426 tofacilitate folding of display device 1324 into storage tray 1414.

In operation, display device 1324 may be moved between an open positionand a closed position by folding arms 1420, 1422 downwardly into storagetray 1414 such that display device 1324 is nested intermediate sidewalls 1424, 1426. Storage tray 1414 may then be slidably moved in adirection toward first table section 1412 and into the storage positionwherein storage tray 1414 is located in vertically spaced relation belowfirst table section 1412.

Referring now to FIGS. 125-128, various processes that are facilitatedby the present invention for ordering and dispensing medication aredepicted in flow diagram format. In FIG. 125, a process for orderingmedication is depicted wherein a doctor provides an order to a nursethrough some form of communication as illustrated by block 1500. Thenurse then enters the order into a system according to the presentinvention such as by using one of the various input devices describedabove, or other means as listed in block 1502. Alternatively, the doctormay enter the order into the system as illustrated in block 1504. Theterminal or point-of-care computer system then provides informationabout the entered order to either the doctor or the nurse, whicheverentered the order. As indicated at block 1506, the order may bedisplayed or repeated audibly, and additional information regarding theorder and/or the patient may be provided by the system upon accessingthe hospital network. If the nurse entered the order, then (at block1508), the nurse relays the information displayed at block 1506 to thedoctor either directly, or by sending a message to the doctor asdescribed herein. At block 1510, the doctor is provided the option ofverifying the entered order. If the doctor verifies the order, then thepoint-of-care system transmits the order information to a pharmacy,displays a message that the order was transmitted, and closes thetransaction as indicated by block 1512. If the doctor does not verifythe order, then the system prompts the doctor to revise the order, andassociates information identifying the doctor, as well as a time-stampfor the revision, with the revised order information as indicated byblock 1514. If the order is revised and verified, it may be sent to thepharmacy in the manner described above.

As shown in FIG. 126, the order is then received at the pharmacy (orother fulfillment center) along with an audible indication for priorityorders (block 1516). At block 1518, the pharmacist crosschecks the orderagainst other medications ordered for the patient, the patient's healthinformation, and other types of information relating to the patientand/or the ordered medication to ensure that the medication isappropriate for the patient. At block 1520, the pharmacist eithervalidates the order or does not validate the order. If the pharmacistdoes not validate the order, then the pharmacy alerts the nurse and/ordoctor via some communication means to resolve any problems thepharmacist identified. If the pharmacist validates order, then any oneor more of a variety of actions occur as indicated by block 1524. Forexample, the pharmacist may have a computer coupled to the hospitalnetwork so that when the pharmacist validates the order, the networkautomatically updates the patient's medication administration record(MAR) and alerts the nurse that the medication order has been validated.The pharmacist may manually fill medication bins (scanning or otherwiseentering information describing the medication for transmission to thepoint-of-care system) and have them transported to the nurse, oractivate an “unlock” function via the hospital computer network tounlock a locked medication box such as any of those described herein. Atblock 1526, the pharmacy alerts the nurse or doctor (via any of avariety of communication means, including those described herein) of thetime and method of delivery of the medication. Block 1528 represents theactual delivery of the medication (either in a locked medication box orunlocked medication bins) to the caregiver.

Referring now to FIG. 127, one method of arranging for the delivery ofthe ordered medication by the nurse is shown. According to the depictedprocedure, a personnel locating and tracking system (at block 1530) mayidentify the nurse when the nurse enters the room of the patientrequiring medication. This identification is described in detail hereinand further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,344,794, the disclosure ofwhich is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. At block1532, the pharmacy may provide the system with the time and deliverymethod of the medication. At block 1534, the system may post a messageto the nurse that is displayed when the nurse is detected in thepatient's room, thereby updating the nurse's to-do list. The message mayinclude delivery information relating to the ordered medication asindicated at block 1536. At block 1538, the nurse picks up themedication and clears the associated entry on the nurse's to-do list. Asindicated by block 1540, the nurse may also remove the validatedmedication from an electronically controlled medication box or cabinet.Finally, at block 1542, the nurse dispenses the medication to thepatient. The process of dispensing the medication is described ingreater detail with reference to FIG. 128 below.

The process of FIG. 128 is similar in certain respects to that of FIG.3B. According to this process, the nurse may either take the orderedmedication to the patient's room (block 1544), the medication may bedelivered in a locked medication box (block 1558), or the medication maybe delivered in an unlocked medication box (block 1562). At block 1546,the system identifies the patient according to any of the varioussensing and/or detection techniques described herein. A display of thepoint-of-care computer generates an image of the patient along with adisplay of the patient's name for viewing by the nurse. Thus, the nursecan verify that the patient being attended to is in fact the patientmaintained in the hospital main database. If the correct patient isidentified (block 1550), then the nurse identification information isentered into the system as indicated by block 1552. If the correctpatient is not identified, then the step of identifying the patient isrepeated.

The system may identify the nurse using any of the techniques describedherein. Alternatively, the nurse may manually enter identification andpassword information into the point-of-care computer. The computerdisplay generates an image of the nurse along with the nurse's name asindicated by block 1554. If the nurse is authorized to dispense themedication, then the process proceeds to step 1560. If not, new nurseidentification information is required.

At block 1560, the system determines whether the medication bank or boxdelivered to the room is the correct box. In other words, the systemchecks the orders for the nurse to determine whether the nurse has beenscheduled to dispense medication of the kind contained in the box asdetected, scanned, or sensed at block 1558. If the correct box and nurseare identified, then the system receives input (block 1564) identifyingthe individual medication as it is removed from the box according to theprinciples described herein. Similarly, information regarding individualmedication removed from an unlocked medication container is entered intoor received by the system. After the individual medication isidentified, the system generates an image on the point-of-care computerdisplay of the medication's physical appearance, along with otherinformation relating to the patient's medication records as indicated atblock 1568. If the correct medication is displayed, then the nurse maydispense the medication to the patient, and enter information into thesystem indicating that the medication has been administered (block1570). At block 1572, the doctor may automatically be notified when themedication is dispensed (e.g., a message may be sent to the doctor). Asindicated by block 1574, the medication package may again be scanned orotherwise sensed to indicate that the medication was dispensed, or thenurse may manually enter the dispensation information via an inputdevice such as a keyboard or touch screen. After the medication isdispensed, the patient is billed as indicated by block 1576.

Additionally, as indicated by block 1578, the nurse may be prompted viathe point-of-care computer display to enter whether or not the patientheld down the medication. If the patient held down the medication, thenthe medication is added to the patient's chart at block 1580. If not,the medication is not added to the patient's chart as indicated by block1582.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 129-143. As bestshown in FIG. 129, system 2000 generally includes a central server 2002,a network 2004, and a plurality of client devices 2006. Server 2002includes a processor 2008, a memory 2009, and a monitor 2010 such as awall-mounted flat screen display. Server 2002 may be implemented on astandard PC or workstation having processing, memory, and othercharacteristics sufficient to carry out the functions described below.Server 2002 may be ethernet compatible, and memory 2009 may include aminimum of 512 Megabytes of memory space. Server 2002 is coupled to atransceiver 2012 that communicates with network 2004 to transmit signalsto and receive signals from a plurality of transceivers 2013 connectedto client devices 2006. Server 2002 is further coupled to any of avariety of health care data systems (generally referred to by thenumeral 2003), a locating and tracking system 2005 of the type disclosedherein and further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,344,794, and otherhospital infrastructure (generally referred to by the numeral 2007) aswill be further described below.

Network 2004 is shown as a wireless network. It is within the scope ofthe invention, however, to implement network 2004 as a wired network orany combination of wired and/or wireless networks. Transceiver 2012 andtransceivers 2013 may include any type of transceiver that is compatiblewith the selected implementation of network 2004.

Client devices 2006 may include any of a variety of different types ofcomputer consoles, including any of the various point-of-care computersystems/displays described herein. In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 130and 131, client device 2006 includes a monitor 2014 coupled to anoverbed table assembly 2016. It should be understood that the principlesof the present invention are equally applicable to a client device 2006coupled to other objects commonly found in a healthcare setting such asa chair, a wheel chair, a walker, an IV stand, a headwall, a ceiling, orother furniture and structural features. Additionally, client device2006 may be a stand-alone component, or coupled to the bed 2020 atlocations other than that described herein (e.g., headboard, footboard,siderail, etc.).

Referring to FIG. 130, table assembly 2016 includes a mounting pole 2018that provides electrical connection to a receptacle (not shown) on bed2020. Pole 2018 may be configured according to the principles disclosedin U.S. provisional patent applications Ser. Nos. 60/333,387 and60/314,483, the disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporatedherein by reference. In this manner, wiring (not shown) internal to pole2018 may provide power to client device 2006 where a wireless datatransfer network is employed, or may provide both power and facilitatedata transfer to and from client device 2006 where a wired network isemployed. Pole 2018 may be vertically adjustable relative to bed 2020,as well as pivotable about a longitudinal axis of pole 2018. One end ofpole 2018 is connected to a table 2022 of table assembly 2016 by abracket (not shown) that may permit rotation of table 2022 about thelongitudinal axis of pole 2018 or other form of adjustment of theposition of table 2022 relative to bed 2020.

Table 2022 includes an outer edge 2024 that defines a work surface 2026and a recessed area 2028. Outer edge 2024 may form a raised lip aroundthe perimeter of work surface 2026 to prevent objects from falling offwork surface 2026. Work surface 2026 may be covered by or formed fromany of a variety of durable materials to provide a suitable writingsurface. Such material may also be stain resistant or otherwise liquidrepellant.

Referring now to FIG. 131, recessed area 2028 includes a sidewall 2030and a bottom wall 2032, and is sized to receive monitor 2014 whenmonitor 2014 is folded to an inactive position. The depth of recessedarea 2028 may be such that when monitor 2014 is in the inactiveposition, the back surface of monitor 2014 is substantially flush withthe upper surface of outer edge 2024. Sidewall 2030 may be formed topermit access to monitor 2014 when in the inactive position such as byproviding a curved portion 2033. When monitor 2014 is in the inactiveposition, a user can reach an edge of monitor 2014 by placing a handinto recessed area 2028 at curved portion 2033, thereby permitting theuser to raise monitor 2014 to the active position.

In the illustrated embodiment, a hand pad 2034 is located at bottom wall2032 of recessed area 2028. Hand pad 2034 functions as an input devicefor client device 2006. More specifically, hand pad 2034 includes acontrol mechanism (not shown) mounted to bottom wall 2032. The controlmechanism is electrically coupled to the processor (not shown) forcontrolling monitor 2014 in a manner similar to a roller ball, rockerswitch, joystick, or the like, and is covered by a membrane 2036.Membrane 2036 is sufficiently flexible to permit the user to move, rock,or otherwise actuate the control mechanism, which, according towell-known principles, causes corresponding movements of a cursor 2038on monitor 2014. The control mechanism of hand pad 2034 also includes aselect button situated below a portion 2042 of membrane 2036. When theuser depresses portion 2042, the select button is actuated, therebycausing the control mechanism to send a select signal to the processor(not shown). Alternatively, the select button associated with portion2042 could be implemented as an electrical, optical, magnetic or othertype of switch or device for indicating a user selection. Thus, usinghand pad 2034, the user can move cursor 2038 on monitor 2014 and selectitems displayed on monitor 2014 to activate different functions ofclient device 2006 as is further described below.

The above-described configuration of hand pad 2034 may be especiallysuitable for providing an easy to operate input device for users havinglimited manual dexterity or mental ability due to illness or advancedage. The entire perimeter of membrane 2036 may be attached to bottomwall 2032 to facilitate cleaning of table 2022 and prevent debris fromcollecting under membrane 2036, potentially interfering with theoperation of the control mechanism or causing a risk to the health ofpatients.

It should be understood that other types of input devices may readily beadapted for use with client device 2006. For example, a conventionalmouse or keyboard could be used. Additionally, monitor 2014 may employtouch screen technology and provide input areas that are sensitive topressure, capacitance, resistance, magnetic fields, opticalinterference, etc. It should further be understood that otherembodiments of the invention may exclude recessed area 2028 of table2022 such that monitor 2014 is positioned on top of outer edge 2024 whenfolded to the inactive position. Moreover, any of the various displaysand mounting configurations described herein (or in any of thedisclosures incorporated herein) may be adapted for use with tableassembly 2016.

Monitor 2014 generally includes a housing 2044 having a hinge 2046connected to one edge of monitor 2014. Hinge 2046 connects monitor 2014to recessed area sidewall 2030 for pivoting movement between theinactive and active positions as described above. Housing 2044 mayenclose the processor and other control electronics (not shown) thatcontrol the operation of client device 2006. Alternatively, housing 2044may enclose wiring for connection to the processor and controlelectronics which may be inconspicuously mounted elsewhere on tableassembly 2016. Housing 2044 further includes a screen 2048 such as a LCDtype color screen for displaying information to the user. Monitor 2014also includes a sensor 2011 (or plurality of sensors 2011) for detectingbadges or tags worn by caregivers, patients, etc., or mounted toequipment, supplies, files, etc., as well as a camera 2015 to providevideo input to client device 2006. In such an embodiment, client device2006 can detect and identify, via locating and tracking system 2005,individuals as they come within the range of sensor 2011. Moreover,client device 2006 may provide on-screen messages to identifiedindividuals. For example, if a member of the cleaning staff enters aroom including client device 2006, monitor 2014 may display a message onscreen 2048 requiring the member to activate a displayed icon toindicate that the room cleaning procedure is complete. Client device2006 may then upload this information to server 2002, which may updatethe cleaning status of the room. Alternatively, client device 2006 mayemploy business logic that assumes that if the member of the cleaningstaff remains within a range of the monitor sensor 2011 for at least apre-determined time period (e.g., 15 minutes), that the room cleaningprocedure is complete. Also, monitor 2014 may include a position sensor2017 (mechanical, electrical, optical, magnetic, etc.) for determiningwhen monitor 2014 is in the inactive position or the active position.Alternatively, position sensor 2017 may be mounted to table 2022.

The software 2050 (FIG. 129) of system 2000 includes a conventionaloperating system such as Microsoft Windows® or Linux®, and applicationsoftware operated by server 2002 and client devices 2006. Software 2050facilitates communications with between server 2002 and client devices2006, health care data systems 2003, locating and tracking system 2005,and hospital infrastructure 2007, processes inputs from the user, andprovides information on monitor 2014, in addition to other functionsdescribed herein. In general, software 2050 is stored on server 2002 andportions of software 2050 are uploaded to particular client devices 2006over network 2004 when needed by client devices 2006 (according tostandard thin client architectures). Data is also stored in memory 2009of server 2006, including patient records data, equipment maintenancedata, facilities processes data, billing information data, dataassociating each client device 2006 with a particular location such as ahospital room, a particular person such as a patient, or both a locationand a person, and other data as described herein.

Software 2050 functions with client device 2006 to generate a pluralityof screens such as the home screen 2052 shown in FIG. 132. Home screen2052 is shown including a day-to-day icon 2054, a message center icon2056, a medical information icon 2058, and an entertainment icon 2060.As is described below, activation of any of these icons causes software2050 to initiate various functions and generate various screens. Duringany of these various operations (or any of the other operationsdescribed below with reference to FIGS. 133-143), software 2050 may beconfigured to turn off or otherwise suspend operation of monitor 2014when position sensor 2017 associated with monitor 2014 indicates thatmonitor 2014 is in the inactive position. When the user moves monitor2014 to the active position, software 2050 may automatically activate orenable monitor 2014 and generate the same screen as was displayed whenmonitor 2014 was last moved to the inactive position.

Medical information icon 2058 is associated with a medical informationapplication of software 2050 wherein patients may view informationrelating to symptoms or parts of the human anatomy. Upon activation oficon 2058, software 2050 generates the screen 2062 shown in FIG. 133.Screen 2062 generally includes a status bar 2063, an image area 2065,and an information area 2067. Status bar 2063 includes a home button2064, an information indicator 2066, and a medinfo indicator 2068 toindicate to the user that the user is currently running the medicalinformation application provided by software 2050. Image area 2065includes an image 2070 of a human body, a head button 2072, a chestbutton 2074, a pelvis button 2076, a limbs button 2078, a systemicbutton 2080, a child button 2088, an adult button 2090, a female button2092, and a male button 2094. Information area 2067 includes a list 2069of topics, a search button 2084, and a more button 2086.

In operation, the user selects a part of image 2070 (such as the chestregion as shown in FIG. 133) by touching the portion of screen 2048 onwhich the image part is displayed. For the remainder of thisdescription, it is assumed that screen 2048 of monitor 2014 is touchsensitive or otherwise able to be actuated by the user. As such, handpad 2034 may be used as an additional input device. When the usertouches a portion of image 2070, software 2050 generates a list 2069 ininformation area 2067 of a variety of topics including symptoms andmedical subjects relating to the corresponding part of the humananatomy. Alternatively, the user may directly activate one of buttons2072, 2074, 2076, 2078, or 2080 to obtain the desired list. In the eventthat list 2069 includes more items than can be simultaneously displayedin information area 2067, the user can view additional items byactivating more button 2086. The user may select a symptom or subject byhighlighting the desired symptom or subject in list 2069 and activatingthe list item using hand pad 2034. When the user activates search button2084, software 2050 accesses additional information relating to theselected item from server 2002, and displays the additional informationin information area 2067. In an alternate embodiment, by activating amedical dictionary button (not shown), the user can access an electronicmedical dictionary database stored on server 2002. In such anembodiment, the user can toggle between the anatomical informationsearching described above and the medical dictionary by activating anappropriate button displayed on screen 2062. The user can return to homescreen 2052 of FIG. 132 by activating home button 2064. Additionally,the user can select a type of human anatomy by activating a desired oneof child button 2088, adult button 2090, female button 2092, and malebutton 2094 to obtain medical information and topic options specific tothe selected anatomy. Thus, the user may switch between different typesof anatomy during navigation of the application.

According to one embodiment, the medical data accessed by theapplication is stored on server 2002 in a database organized in a treedata structure. Each leaf on the tree of the tree structure contains apointer to a list of pointers in the database. The pointers ultimatelydirect the application to information pages contained in the database.The information pages may include collections of text pages providingthe selected medical information for display in information area 2067.

Software 2050 also includes a schedule and meal ordering applicationwherein patients may view scheduled items and order meals from bed 2020.Upon activation of icon day-to-day icon 2054, software 2050 generatesscreen 2096 as shown in FIG. 134. Screen 2096 generally includes aninformation area 2102, a status bar 2103, and a calendar area 2104.Status bar 2103 includes home button 2064, a day-to-day button 2098, anda schedule indicator 2100. Calendar area 2104 includes a display of acalendar representing, for example, four weeks including the currentweek, and a meal service button 2106. The calendar days having scheduleditems are indicated in some manner, such as by shading. As indicated incalendar area 2104, the user may view any scheduled items associatedwith a particular day by touching the displayed day. When the usertouches a day, the scheduled items for that day are displayed ininformation area 2102. In this manner, the user (or patient) is providedwith reminders of visits, consultations, etc., and can plan accordingly.

Upon activating meal service button 2106 (or selecting a meal serviceoption (not shown) displayed along with a scheduling option (not shown)in a pull-down menu (not shown) upon activation of day-to-day button2098), software 2050 causes client device 2006 to generate and displayon display 2048 the screen 2108 shown in FIG. 135. Screen 2108 generallyincludes a status bar 2110, a menu area 2112, and a command bar 2114.Status bar 2110 includes home button 2064, day-to-day button 2098, ameal service indicator 2116, and a today indicator 2118. Menu area 2112includes a display of menu items arranged in three columns correspondingto breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu items listed may be selectedand entered into system 2000 by hospital personnel to correspond toavailable menu items and conform to any specific dietary needs orrestrictions of the user. It should be understood that screen 2108 couldalso include information or links to information relating to thenutritional characteristics of the listed menu items. Command barincludes a clear choices button 2120, a go-to-tomorrow button 2122, another menus button 2124, and an order button 2126.

As shown in FIG. 136, the user may select items for each of thedisplayed meals by touching the selected items, thereby causing software2050 to display a checkmark near the selected item or otherwise indicateits selection. The user may submit the order (i.e., a list of selecteditems) to a fulfillment location (such as a food preparation/mealassembly center) by touching order button 2126. In one embodiment, whenorder button 2126 is activated, software 2050 generates a verifyselections message (not shown), and provides the user with the abilityto edit the selections. If the selections are verified, then clientdevice 2006 transmits signals via network 2004 to server 2002, which maysubsequently route the order to an appropriate fulfillment location.

The clear choices button 2120 enables the user to reset his or herselections and begin the selections process again. Activation of thego-to-tomorrow button 2122 causes software 2050 to display the menuselections for meals to be served one day in the future. When the usertouches the other menus button 2124, software 2050 may generate adisplay (not shown) of menu options for special meals, links to localrestaurants, or some other menu related options. The user may return tohome screen 2052 of FIG. 132 by activating home button 2064, or returnto scheduling screen 2096 of FIG. 134 by selecting the scheduling option(not shown) displayed in the pull-down menu (not shown) generated uponactivation of day-to-day button 2098.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the usertouches entertainment icon 2060 of home screen 2052, software 2050invokes an entertainment control application that enables the user tocontrol power, channel selection, volume, and other functions associatedwith entertainment equipment typically found in a hospital room such asa television or radio. Specifically, software 2050 generates screen 2128shown in FIG. 137. Screen 2128 is, in this embodiment, the defaultentertainment screen that is initially displayed when entertainment icon2060 is selected. Screen 2128 includes a status bar 2130, a video area2132, and a control area 2134. Status bar 2130 includes home button 2064(activation of which returns the user to home screen 2052 of FIG. 132),an entertainment button 2136, a TV indicator 2138, and a channelindicator 2140. Video area 2132 displays the video content of theselected television channel. It should be understood that system 2000may, instead, be coupled to conventional hospital television controlssuch that system 2000 functions simply as a control interface, withoutproviding content output. In other words, the television video may, inother embodiments, be displayed on the hospital television. Theaccompanying audio may be provided through a speaker connected to system2000, through the conventional radio speaker provided with bed 2020, orthrough any other suitable sound system.

Control area includes volume slider 2142, channel-up button 2144, andchannel-down button 2146. By touching volume slider 2142 and moving itvertically, the user can adjust the volume of the audio accompanying thevideo content of the selected television channel. The user may changechannels to an adjacent channel by activating one of channel-up button2144 or channel-down button 2146 according to principles that are wellknown in the art. When a new channel is selected, channel indicator 2140may display an identification of the selected channel.

When entertainment button 2136 is activated, software 2050 generates apull-down menu (not shown) for display on screen 2128 that lists asoptions TV, radio, and games. The user may navigate between thesevarious entertainment control functions using entertainment button 2136and the displayed options. When the user selects the radio option (notshown), software 2050 causes client device 2006 to display screen 2148on monitor 2014 as shown in FIG. 138. Screen 2148 generally includes astatus bar 2150, a control area 2152, and a channel selection area 2154.Status bar 2050 includes home button 2064 (for returning to home screen2052), entertainment button 2136, and a radio indicator 2156. Controlarea 2152 includes a talk radio button 2158, a music button 2160, and avolume slider 2162. When initially displayed, screen 2148 may default tomusic radio as shown in FIG. 138. Accordingly, channel selection area2154 includes a plurality of channel icons 2164 that correspond todifferent music formats. Activation of any channel icon 2164 causesclient device 2006 to send appropriate signals to a radio receiver (notshown), thereby causing the receiver to tune to a predetermined channelcorresponding to the selected music format. The user may adjust thevolume of the music by manipulating volume slider 2162 in the mannerdescribed above with regard to volume slider 2142.

When the user activates talk button 2158, software 2050 causes clientdevice 2006 to generate screen 2166 as shown in FIG. 139. Screen 2166 isidentical to screen 2148, except that a plurality of talk radio formatsare displayed in channel icons 2164 instead of music formats as shown inFIG. 138. The user may select a particular talk radio format by touchingthe corresponding channel icon 2164 in the manner described above.

As should be understood from the foregoing, when the user activates atelevision or radio channel or volume control function, client device2006 transmits the appropriate signal(s) to carry out the selectedfunction either to the entertainment equipment directly via a wired orwireless connection, or to other control equipment connected to theentertainment equipment. For example, client device 2006 may readily beconfigured to provide input to a television control device such as thatdisclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/025,934,which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.Alternatively, or in addition to the functions described above, theentertainment control application could serve as an interface forordering pay-per-view programming, the cost of which could be tracked bysystem 2000 and stored on server 2002 for billing to the user. Applyingthe principles disclosed herein, system 2000 could further readily beconfigured to function as a control interface for a DVD player, VCR,cassette player, or any other type of entertainment device.

Similarly, software 2050 may provide a phone service interfaceapplication that enables the user to place telephone calls via monitor2014. More specifically, client device 2006 may be connected to thehospital phone system via a wired or wireless connection. Software 2050may cause client device 2006 to generate screens (not shown) presentingthe user with options of placing a phone call, accessing a directory,etc. The user may input a telephone number (or select a number from adirectory), and command client device 2006 to call the number via thehospital phone system.

Referring now to FIG. 140, when the user activates entertainment button2136 to access the resulting pull-down menu (not shown) that providestelevision, radio, and games options, and selects the games option,software 2050 causes client device 2006 generate screen 2168. As shown,screen 2168 generally includes a status bar 2170 and a games selectionarea 2172. Status bar 2170 includes home button 2064, entertainmentbutton 2136, and a games indicator 2174. By touching one of theplurality of games icons 2176 displayed in games selection area 2172,the user causes software 2050 to invoke a software applicationcorresponding to the selected game. The user may return to home screen2052 or return to television control or radio control using home button2064 or entertainment button 2136, respectively.

Software 2050 also includes a messaging application that enables usersand hospital personnel to send and receive messages. Upon activatingmessage center icon 2056 displayed on home screen 2052 (FIG. 132), theuser causes software 2050 to display screen 2178 shown in FIG. 141.Screen 2178 generally includes a status bar 2180, a message area 2182,and a command area 2184. Status bar 2178 includes home button 2064, amessage center button 2186, and a compose indicator 2188. Message area2182 includes an intended recipient field 2190, a subject field 2192, amessage field 2194, and a scroll bar 2195. Command area 2184 includes asend button 2196, a +voice button 2198, and a +video button 2200.

A user may compose a message and input the recipient name(s) and subjectof the message using, for example, a wireless keyboard (not shown)coupled to client device 2006. Alternatively, software 2050 may generatea keyboard overlay (not shown) on screen 2178 to enable the user totouch portions of the screen corresponding to the desired letters and/ornumbers. When the message is composed, the user may review the message(i.e., scroll up or down) by manipulating scroll bar 2195 as is wellknown in the art. It is within the scope of the present invention toconfigure software 2050 to provide a variety of message editing anddistribution functions similar to functions typically provided byconventional internet browser software. Upon activation of send button2196, software 2050 forwards the message to a destination locationcorresponding to the recipient(s). For example, server 2002 may accesslocating and tracking system 2005 (FIG. 129) to determine the currentlocation of a recipient, and forward the message over network 2004 to amonitor 2014 associated with or otherwise in proximity of the recipient.Alternatively, server 2002 may store the message until locating andtracking system 2005 detects the presence of the recipient in aparticular area. At the time of detection, server 2002 may transmit themessage to a monitor 2014 in proximity of the recipient. It should beunderstood that messages so transmitted may also include an accessscreen that requires the recipient to comply with a security provision(e.g., enter a password) before accessing the content of the message ifautomatic detection of user identification via sensors and badges/tagsis not used.

The message described above is a text message, generated, for example,by manipulating an on-screen keyboard. By activating +voice button 2198,the user causes software 2050 to begin recording an audio messageprovided by the user through a microphone (not shown) connected tomonitor 2014 or a telephone handset of a conventional, in-room telephoneelectrically coupled to monitor 2014. The resulting audio file isassociated with the text file (if one was created) and forwarded to therecipient(s) in the manner described above. By activating +video button2200, the user causes software 2050 to display screen 2216 of FIG. 143(as further described below) to enable the user to record anaudio-visual message through use of an audio input as described aboveand camera 2015 of monitor 2014.

When the user touches message center button 2186, software 2050generates a pull-down menu (not shown) that displays a compose optionand an inbox option. When the compose option is selected, screen 2178 isgenerated as shown in FIG. 141. When the user selects the inbox option,software 2050 causes client device 2006 to display screen 2202 onmonitor 2014 as shown in FIG. 142. Screen 2202 generally includes astatus bar 2204 and a message box 2206. Message status bar 2204 includeshome button 2064, message center button 2186, and an inbox indicator2208. Message box 2206 includes a heading bar 2210, a message listingarea 2212, and a slider bar 2214. As shown, heading bar 2210 provideslabels such as “Status,” “From,” “Subject,” “Received,” and “Type,” toorganize the messages listed in message listing area 2212 in columnformat. Thus, under the “Status” label, message listing area 2212provides an indication of whether a listed message has been read,forwarded, etc. The message sender is listed under the “From” label, thesubject matter of the message is listed under the “Subject” label, thedate and time the message was received is listed under the “Received”label, and the type of message (i.e., text, audio, video) is indicatedunder the “Type” label. The user can scroll through the messages listedin the message listing area 2212 by manipulating slider bar 2214.

As should be apparent from the foregoing, utilizing client device 2006,the user may access the internet and send and receive e-mail messageswith other internet users. In such an embodiment, network 2004 isconnected to the internet, and software 2050 includes a browser forinterfacing with server 2002 and the internet. Software 2050 may beconfigured (using conventional techniques) to provided limited internetaccess, restricting user access to certain websites. Since client device2006 utilizes thin client type architecture, client device 2006 isinherently resistant to infection by computer viruses of the typetransmitted over the internet. An overlay text application may functionin cooperation with the browser to provide an on-screen keyboard,thereby permitting text entry into the browser. Alternatively, asindicated above, a wireless keyboard may be used as an input device.

When the user activates a text message listed in the message listingarea 2212 to select the message, software 2050 generates a text box (notshown) including the content of the message. When the user activates anaudio message, software 2050 generates a control box (not shown) onmonitor 2014 including buttons that correspond to conventional controlfunctions for a piece of audio equipment such as a tape player similarto the control box described below in connection with the selection of avideo message.

Referring now to FIG. 143, when the user selects a video message fromthe message listing area 2212 (or touches +video button 2200 of FIG.141), software 2050 generates screen 2216. Screen 2216 generallyincludes a status bar 2218 and a control box 2220. Status bar 2218includes home button 2064, message center button 2186, inbox indicator2208, and a video message indicator 2222. Control box 2220 includes aninformation area 2224 that lists the message sender, subject matter, anddate and time received, a video slider 2226, a rewind button 2228, arecord button 2230, a play button 2232, a pause button 2234, a videoarea 2236, an audio slider 2238, a reply button 2240, a forward button2242, a delete button 2244, and a return to inbox button 2246. When theuser touches play button 2232, software 2050 causes client device 2006to communicate with server 2002 over network 2004. Specifically, clientdevice 2006 requests server 2002 to access data stored in memory 2009corresponding to the selected video message. This data is provided toclient device 2006, which generates or recreates the stored videomessage in video area 2236. Associated audio is provided through aspeaker (not shown) or other sound system coupled to client device 2006.The playback of video and audio may be manipulated by the user viarewind button 2228 and pause button 2234. Also, the user can move tospecific parts of the playback using video slider 2226, and adjust thevolume of the audio portion of the playback using audio slider 2238. Theuser may compose a video message (e.g., after activating the +videobutton 2200 of FIG. 141) by touching record button 2230. Delete button2244 enables the user to remove the selected message from the user'sinbox. Return to inbox button 2246 enables the user to return to theuser's inbox (i.e., screen 2202 of FIG. 142 is displayed). The user canforward the message to another person by touching forward button 2242,which causes software 2050 to generate a screen similar to screen 2184of FIG. 141, showing the selected video message as an attachment.Similarly, when the user activates reply button 2240, software 2050causes client device 2006 to generate a screen similar to screen 2184 ofFIG. 141, showing the message sender as the recipient of the replymessage.

As an example of the foregoing messaging application, a doctor couldleave a message for a nurse at a monitor 2014 coupled to bed 2020 of apatient being treated by the doctor. The doctor's badge could be sensedby sensor 2011 coupled to client device 2006, thereby giving the doctoraccess to the messaging application and the doctor's inbox. The doctorcould then generate an audio-visual message according to the principlesdescribed above. The message could be stored on server 2002 until thenurse visits the patient. When the nurse approaches the patient, thenurse's badge is sensed by sensor 2011, causing client device 2006 togenerate a message on monitor 2014 notifying the nurse that a message iswaiting. The nurse could then access the message content as describedabove.

Finally, it is within the scope of the invention to configure clientdevice 2006 such that the user can control the position of bed 2020 viaclient device 2006. In such an embodiment, client device 2006 respondsto user activation of bed control icons displayed on screen 2048 bygenerating appropriate signals for transmission (either over a wiredconnection or wirelessly) to actuators controlling various conventionalbed functions.

In addition to providing the above-described “client-centric” features,system 2000 may be configured to provide a variety of“caregiver-centric” features and functions including equipment andpersonnel locating, patient record retrieval and input, patientphysiological monitoring, medication management, and doctor's ordermanagement as is further described below. Using the principles describedabove, client device 2006 may display to authorized personnel the statusand location of equipment and personnel based on information obtainedfrom locating and tracking system 2005. Again, with appropriateauthorization, hospital personnel such as doctors and/or nurses, may useclient device 2006 as an interface to a hospital records databaseaccessible by server 2002 to access the health records and other recordsof a patient. In this manner, hospital personnel may access healthrelated information for patient at the point of care. Moreover, hospitalpersonnel may add information to the patient's records or files usingclient device 2006 as an interface to the central records database.Also, as indicated above, client device 2006 may be electrically coupledto any of a variety of types of physiological monitoring equipment anddisplay data corresponding to the monitored parameter(s). For example, aconventional EKG interface box could readily be coupled to monitor 2014such that monitor 2014 functions as a user interface (and power supply)for the EKG equipment. Alternatively, client device 2006 could directlycouple to existing physiological monitoring equipment via acommunications port (e.g., an RS-232 port) and function as a commoninterface. Client device 2006 may also function as computer 12 describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/310,092, the disclosure of whichis hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. Finally, clientdevice 2006 may, in conjunction with server 2002, function as an inputand retrieval device for creating, storing, and accessing doctor'sorders. For example, a doctor could create a message for anothercaregiver in the manner described above, ordering, for example,continuous lateral rotation therapy for a patient. The caregiver couldreceive the message and activate the appropriate bed equipment toadminister the therapy. Client device 2006 may be in communication withthe bed equipment to monitor the therapy. detect completion of thetherapy, and generate a record of compliance with the doctor's orders.Moreover, client device 2006 could readily be configured to logregulatory compliance based upon the occurrence of certain events suchas maintenance of equipment.

System 2000 further enables a plurality of “administration-centric”features and functions including care process improvement, room statusand/or availability, billing information input, and equipmentmaintenance. For example, process data collected, for example, employingthe technology described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/154,644(hereinafter, “the '644 Application”), the disclosure of which is herebyexpressly incorporated herein by reference, may be accessed using clientdevice 2006 as an interface. Moreover, client device 2006 may include adetector such as those described in the '644 Application to passivelyobtain data regarding the movement of people, equipment, supplies, etc.for use in care process modeling, forecasting, and improvement. Bydetecting patient discharges or transfers either directly throughsensing patient movements or patient movements in conjunction with otheractivities associated with discharge or transfer (e.g., room cleaning),or indirectly by accessing a hospital occupancy database, client device2006 may display room status and availability information, or functionas an interface for authorized personnel to update room status andavailability data. Also, as indicated above, client device 2006 maypermit authorized personnel to input or access patient billinginformation, or may directly modify a patient's bill by detectingbillable events (e.g., usage of medication, purchase of pay-per-viewentertainment, or the usage of equipment). Finally, via communicationwith locating and tracking system 2005, system 2000 may provideinformation to authorized personnel regarding the maintenance status ofvarious pieces of equipment. For example, bed 2020 may provide a signalto client device 2006 indicating the hours of use bed 2020 has providedsince its last scheduled maintenance. Client device 2006 and software2050 may be configured to send a message or signal to appropriatepersonnel (such as maintenance personnel) when maintenance is required.The maintenance personnel may use monitor 2014 as an interface tolocating and tracking system 2005 to determine the location of bed 2020.

Another plurality of variations of another embodiment of the presentinvention are shown in FIGS. 144-147. Referring to FIG. 144, apoint-of-care computer mounting configuration 2300 includes a computer12 and display 24 supported by a telescopic support 2310. A pair ofmoveable support arms 132 that support IV poles 134 also supported bytelescopic support 2310. Telescopic support 2310 includes a first member2312 that is connected at one end to the ceiling of the room. A secondmember 2314 is telescopically received by first member 2312, andtelescopically receives a third member 2316. Third member telescopicallyreceives a fourth member 2318, which is connected to the housing towhich computer 12 and display 14 are attached. Thus, telescopic support2310 permits adjustment of the vertical position of display 24, computer12, and IV poles 134 relative to the ceiling. Power and other signalsare provided to computer 12 and display 24 by wiring (not shown) routedfrom the ceiling through telescopic support 2310. It should beunderstood that fourth member 2318 may include a rotatable coupling suchthat display 24 and computer 12 may be rotated about a longitudinal axisof telescopic support 2310.

FIG. 145 shows a variation of point-of-care computer mountingconfiguration 2300. In this embodiment, third member 2316 of telescopicsupport 2300 is coupled to a bracket 2320 that is connected to a supportcolumn 2322 coupled to computer 12. Additionally, display 24 is mountedto an arm assembly 2324, including a first arm 2326, a second arm 2328,a coupler 2330, and a third arm 2332. First arm 2326 is pivotallyconnected at one end to computer 12, and pivotally connected at theother end to second arm 2328. Arm 2328 is also pivotally connected tocoupler 2330, which in turn is pivotally connected to third arm 2332.Thus, as with many other mounting configurations described herein, armassembly 2330 permits adjustment of the position of display 24 relativeto bed 2336. The power and other signals routed to computer 12 anddisplay 24 are routed as described with reference to FIG. 144, exceptthat an additional input connector (not shown) is provided at the lowerend of support column 2322. In this embodiment, mounting configuration2300 may be detached from third member 2316 and docked to another powerand signal input source as shown in FIGS. 146 and 147.

As shown in FIG. 146, mounting configuration 2300 may be docked to a bedmover 2334 that supports bed 2336 for movement of bed 2336 to variouslocations within the facility. Bed mover 2334 includes a docking column2338 that includes a connector (not shown) for mating with the connectorat the lower end of support column 2322. A battery (not shown) may beprovided in bed mover 2334 and wired to the connector of docking column2338 for powering computer 12 and display 24 during transportation ofbed 2336.

In FIG. 147, mounting configuration 2300 is shown docked to the overbedtable 2340 shown in FIG. 145. In this variation, overbed table 2340includes a docking column 2342 and a push handle 2346 for moving table2340. Docking column 2342 includes a connector (not shown) at its upperend that mates with the connector (not shown) of support column 2322 inthe manner described above. A battery (not shown) may also be providedon overbed table 2340 to power computer 12 and display 24.

FIGS. 148-150 depict yet another embodiment of the present invention. Inmounting configuration 2348, a point-of-care display 2350 is movablymounted on a clamp assembly including a pair of adjustable clamps 2352.Display 2350 includes a handle 2354, a housing 2356 connected to handle2354, and a screen 2358 mounted in housing 2356. Display 2350 mayreceive power and other signals from the computer 12 (not shown)wirelessly. Alternatively, display 2350 may include a cord 2360 forconnection to computer 12 or another interface device. Each adjustableclamp 2352 includes a J-shaped upper clamp 2362 having a segmented post2366 extending therefrom, and a J-shaped lower claim 2364 having a bore(not shown) for receiving post 2366 and a release button 2368.Adjustable clamps 2352 are configured for mounting to a siderail, aheadboard, or a footboard of bed 2336 as shown in FIG. 150. Clamps 2362,2364 are first extended apart from one another to fit over, for example,a siderail. Then, release buttons 2368 are depressed to retract stops(not shown) that normally engage one of the segments of segmented posts2366, thereby permitting movement of lower clamps 2364 upwardly towardupper clamps 2362. When clamps 2364, 2362 securely engage lower andupper portions of the siderail, respectively, release buttons 2368 arereleased, thereby permitting the stops (not shown) to engage a segmentof segmented posts 2366 to lock adjustable clamps 2352 onto thesiderail.

As shown in FIGS. 149 and 150, adjustable clamps 2352 are connectedtogether by a plate 2370. In one embodiment as shown in FIG. 149,display 2350 is movable within vertical grooves 2372 formed in theopposing surfaces of adjustable clamps 2352. Display 2350 may also beremoved from grooves 2372 and positioned on a post 2374 for rotationabout post 2374. In this manner, display 2350 may be viewed from avariety of different viewing angles. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 150,when display 2350 is moved to an uppermost position relative to plate2370, display 2350 may be rotated to a perpendicular position relativeto plate 2370 to simultaneously function as an overbed table and adisplay. It should be understood that display 2350 may be rotated to anyof a plurality of different positions relative to plate 2370. It shouldalso be understood that software operated by computer 12 (not shown) mayinclude code for rotating or otherwise adjusting the images displayed onscreen 2358 to compensate for the position of display 24 and correct theviewing angle for the viewer.

The foregoing description of the invention is illustrative only, and isnot intended to limit the scope of the invention to the precise termsset forth. Although the invention has been described in detail withreference to certain illustrative embodiments, variations andmodifications exist within the scope and spirit of the invention asdescribed and defined in the following claims.

1. A hospital bed comprising a frame, the frame including at least onemovable section, an actuator to move the movable section, computerhardware coupled to the frame, the computer hardware being configured tocommunicate with a remote network server and being configured to be aclient device of the remote network server, and a display screen coupledto the frame, wherein the computer hardware has stored therein browsersoftware, and wherein the computer hardware cooperates with the displayscreen to provide the bed with at least one of the following functions:i) a user input on the display screen to enable a patient on thehospital bed to control the actuator, ii) a television to enable apatient on the hospital bed to watch television programming on thedisplay screen, iii) a television to enable a patient on the hospitalbed to watch selected movies on the display screen, iv) a radio toenable a patient on the hospital bed to listen to radio programming viaselections made on the display screen, v) an e-mail function to enable apatient on the hospital bed to use the display screen in connection withsending an e-mail to a recipient, wherein the at least one functioncomprises three of functions i) through v).
 2. The hospital bed of claim1, wherein the at least one function comprises four of functions i)through v).
 3. The hospital bed of claim 1, wherein the at least onefunction comprises all five of functions i) through v).
 4. The hospitalbed of claim 1, wherein the computer hardware communicates with theremote network server via at least one of an Ethernet connection, awireless connection, or a wireless RF connection.
 5. A hospital bedcomprising a frame, the frame including at least one movable section, anactuator to move the movable section, computer hardware coupled to theframe, the computer hardware being configured to communicate with aremote network server and being configured to be a client device of theremote network server, and a display screen coupled to the frame,wherein the computer hardware has stored therein browser software, andwherein the computer hardware cooperates with the display screen toprovide the bed with at least one of the following functions: i) a userinput on the display screen to enable a patient on the hospital bed tocontrol the actuator, ii) a television to enable a patient on thehospital bed to watch television programming on the display screen, iii)a television to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watch selectedmovies on the display screen, iv) a radio to enable a patient on thehospital bed to listen to radio programming via selections made on thedisplay screen, v) an e-mail function to enable a patient on thehospital bed to use the display screen in connection with sending ane-mail to a recipient, wherein the computer hardware cooperates with thedisplay screen to display a food menu to a patient on the hospital bedto enable the patient to make food choices.
 6. A hospital bed comprisinga frame, the frame including at least one movable section, an actuatorto move the movable section, computer hardware coupled to the frame, thecomputer hardware being configured to communicate with a remote networkserver and being configured to be a client device of the remote networkserver, and a display screen coupled to the frame, wherein the computerhardware has stored therein browser software, and wherein the computerhardware cooperates with the display screen to provide the bed with atleast one of the following functions: i) a user input on the displayscreen to enable a patient on the hospital bed to control the actuator,ii) a television to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watchtelevision programming on the display screen., iii) a television toenable a patient on the hospital bed to watch selected movies on thedisplay screen, iv) a radio to enable a patient on the hospital bed tolisten to radio programming via selections made on the display screen,v) an e-mail function to enable a patient on the hospital bed to use thedisplay screen in connection with sending an e-mail to a recipient,wherein the computer hardware cooperates with the display screen todisplay user inputs to control at least one of room lighting, roomtemperature, a position of a window curtain, or a position of a privacycurtain.
 7. A hospital bed comprising a frame, the frame including atleast one movable section, an actuator to move the movable section,computer hardware coupled to the frame, the computer hardware beingconfigured to communicate with a remote network server and beingconfigured to be a client device of the remote network server, and adisplay screen coupled to the frame, wherein the computer hardware hasstored therein browser software, and wherein the computer hardwarecooperates with the display screen to provide the bed with at least oneof the following functions: i) a user input on the display screen toenable a patient on the hospital bed to control the actuator, ii) atelevision to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watch televisionprogramming on the display screen, iii) a television to enable a patienton the hospital bed to watch selected movies on the display screen, iv)a radio to enable a patient on the hospital bed to listen to radioprogramming via selections made on the display screen, v) an e-mailfunction to enable a patient on the hospital bed to use the displayscreen in connection with sending an e-mail to a recipient, wherein thecomputer hardware cooperates with the display screen to display atelephone key pad to enable a patient on the hospital bed to place atelephone call.
 8. A hospital bed comprising a frame, the frameincluding at least one movable section, an actuator to move the movablesection, computer hardware coupled to the frame, the computer hardwarebeing configured to communicate with a remote network server and beingconfigured to be a client device of the remote network server, and adisplay screen coupled to the frame, wherein the computer hardware hasstored therein browser software, and wherein the computer hardwarecooperates with the display screen to provide the bed with at least oneof the following functions: i) a user input on the display screen toenable a patient on the hospital bed to control the actuator, ii) atelevision to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watch televisionprogramming on the display screen, iii) a television to enable a patienton the hospital bed to watch selected movies on the display screen, iv)a radio to enable a patient on the hospital bed to listen to radioprogramming via selections made on the display screen, v) an e-mailfunction to enable a patient on the hospital bed to use the displayscreen in connection with sending an e-mail to a recipient, wherein thecomputer hardware is coupled via the remote network server to a patientbilling computer so that when a patient uses a billable function of thehospital bed, the patient is billed for use of the billable function. 9.A hospital bed comprising a frame, the frame including at least onemovable section, an actuator to move the movable section, computerhardware coupled to the frame, the computer hardware being configured tocommunicate with a remote network server and being configured to be aclient device of the remote network server, and a display screen coupledto the frame, wherein the computer hardware has stored therein browsersoftware, and wherein the computer hardware cooperates with the displayscreen to provide the bed with at least one of the following functions:i) a user input on the display screen to enable a patient on thehospital bed to control the actuator, ii) a television to enable apatient on the hospital bed to watch television programming on thedisplay screen, iii) a television to enable a patient on the hospitalbed to watch selected movies on the display screen, iv) a radio toenable a patient on the hospital bed to listen to radio programming viaselections made on the display screen, v) an e-mail function to enable apatient on the hospital bed to use the display screen in connection withsending an e-mail to a recipient, wherein the computer hardwarecooperates with the display screen to display selectable nurse callmessages that a patient on the hospital bed can select when placing anurse call.
 10. The hospital bed of claim 9, wherein the selectablenurse call messages include at least one of a message to request water,a message to request ice chips, a message that a bed pan needs changed,a message indicating that the patient needs to go to the bathroom, amessage that the patient wishes to speak to a nurse, or a message thatthe patient is in pain.
 11. A hospital bed comprising a frame, the frameincluding at least one movable section, an actuator to move the movablesection, computer hardware coupled to the frame, the computer hardwarebeing configured to communicate with a remote network server and beingconfigured to be a client device of the remote network server, and adisplay screen coupled to the frame, wherein the computer hardware hasstored therein browser software, and wherein the computer hardwarecooperates with the display screen to provide the bed with at least oneof the following functions: i) a user input on the display screen toenable a patient on the hospital bed to control the actuator, ii) atelevision to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watch televisionprogramming on the display screen., iii) a television to enable apatient on the hospital bed to watch selected movies on the displayscreen, iv) a radio to enable a patient on the hospital bed to listen toradio programming via selections made on the display screen, v) ane-mail function to enable a patient on the hospital bed to use thedisplay screen in connection with sending an e-mail to a recipient,wherein the computer hardware cooperates with the display screen todisplay a calendar showing a patient schedule.
 12. A hospital bedcomprising a frame, computer hardware coupled to the frame, the computerhardware being configured to communicate with a remote network serverand being configured to be a client device of the remote network server,and a display screen coupled to the frame, wherein the computer hardwarehas stored therein browser software, and wherein the computer hardwarecooperates with the display screen to provide the bed with at least oneof the following functions: i) a television to enable a patient on thehospital bed to watch television programming on the display screen, ii)a television to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watch selectedmovies on the display screen, iii) a radio to enable a patient on thehospital bed to listen to radio programming via selections made on thedisplay screen, iv) an e-mail function to enable a patient on thehospital bed to use the display screen in connection with sending ane-mail to a recipient.
 13. The hospital bed of claim 12, wherein the atleast one function comprises two of functions i) through iv).
 14. Thehospital bed of claim 12, wherein the at least one function comprisesthree of functions i) through iv).
 15. The hospital bed of claim 12,wherein the at least one function comprises all four of functions i)through iv).
 16. A hospital bed comprising a frame, computer hardwarecoupled to the frame, the computer hardware being configured tocommunicate with a remote network server and being configured to be aclient device of the remote network server, and a display screen coupledto the frame, wherein the computer hardware has stored therein browsersoftware, and wherein the computer hardware cooperates with the displayscreen to provide the bed with each of the following functions: i) atelevision to enable a patient on the hospital bed to watch televisionprogramming on the display screen, ii) a television to enable thepatient on the hospital bed to watch selected movies on the displayscreen, iii) a radio to enable the patient on the hospital bed to listento radio programming via selections made on the display screen, iv) ane-mail function to enable the patient on the hospital bed to use thedisplay screen in connection with sending an e-mail to a recipient, v) afood menu function to enable the patient on the hospital bed to makefood choices, vi) an environmental control function to enable thepatient to control an environmental feature.
 17. The hospital bed ofclaim 16, wherein the environmental feature includes at least one ofroom lighting, room temperature, a position of a window curtain, or aposition of a privacy curtain.
 18. The hospital bed of claim 16, whereinthe computer hardware is coupled via the remote network server to apatient billing computer so that when a patient uses a billable functionof the hospital bed, the patient is billed for use of the billablefunction.